When Is the Kentucky Derby? (Date, Location, Post Positions)

147th Kentucky Derby.
147th Kentucky Derby. / Andy Lyons/GettyImages
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The Kentucky Derby is the first of the three Triple Crown events on the schedule, ahead of the Preakness and Belmont Stakes, and it will take place this week at Churchill Downs Racetrack. 

If you’re planning on betting on the Derby, there are several things you need to know, so here is a full primer on all things Kentucky Derby this week: 

When Is the Kentucky Derby Post Time?

The field for the 2022 Kentucky Derby isn’t finalized yet, but it will be set following the post position draw, which is scheduled for Monday, May 2 at 2 p.m. EST. The post time is set for 6:57 p.m. EST on Saturday, May 7. 

What Time Is the Kentucky Derby?

The Kentucky Derby will be held on Saturday, May 7 at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky. The Derby is scheduled to begin at 6:57 p.m. EST on Saturday. 

What Channel Is the Kentucky Derby on?

The Kentucky Derby will be broadcast live on NBC and also live streamed on NBC's Peacock service.

Where Is the Kentucky Derby?

The Kentucky Derby is held at Churchill Downs Racetrack in Louisville, Kentucky. The Derby is the first of the three Triple Crown races, and it has been run uninterrupted since its inaugural race in 1875. It is the oldest continuously held major sporting event in America. 

How Long Is the Kentucky Derby?

The Kentucky Derby is 1.25 miles, or two kilometers. The Derby began as a 1.5 mile race before changing in 1896. The fastest time run by a horse at the Kentucky Derby came in 1973 at 1:59.4 minutes. That time was posted by Secretariat, who broke the record set by Northern Dancer back in 1964.  

How Much Are Kentucky Derby Tickets? 

According to the Kentucky Derby’s website, general admission tickets are currently $80 and will increase to $85 on the day of the race. 

Kentucky Derby Post Positions

According to KentuckyDerby.com, here’s a projected lineup prior to the post positions being set on Monday: 

1. Epicenter

2. Zandon

3. White Abarrio

4. Mo Donegal

5. Tiz the Bomb

6. Cyberknife

7. Crown Pride

8. Taiba

9. Simplification

10. Smile Happy

11. Classic Causeway

12. Tawny Port

13. Barber Road

14. Un Ojo

15. Messier

16. Zozos

17. Summer Is Tomorrow

18. Charge It

19. Happy Jack

20. Pioneer of Medina