Sovereignty Triumphs in Rainy 151st Kentucky Derby

LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Sovereignty won the 151st running of the Kentucky Derby Saturday at Churchill Downs, overcoming muddy conditions to claim victory. The three-year-old colt, who started at 9-1 odds, surged down the final stretch and edged out the pre-race favorite, Journalism, moments before crossing the finish line.

Jockey Junior Alvarado celebrated his first Derby win, while owner Bill Mott secured his second Derby title. Notably, this is the first time a horse trained by Mott has crossed the finish line first since Country House‘s controversial victory in 2019, when he was elevated after Maximum Security was disqualified. It also marks a significant milestone for Sheikh Mohammed, founder of Godolphin, as it completes the career Triple Crown for him.

With rain pouring and a 19-horse field facing wet, muddy conditions, the Derby’s famous surface posed unique challenges. Sovereignty’s win adds to the trend where race favorites have struggled, with no favorite winning the Derby since 2018.

In addition to Sovereignty and Journalism, Baeza rounded out the top three. Last year’s winner, Mystik Dan, had odds of 18-1, emphasizing the unpredictable nature of the Derby.

Next up in the racing calendar is the Preakness Stakes on May 17 at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Maryland. As organizers finalize the field, the anticipation surrounding the Triple Crown continues to build.