Kentucky Derby and Oaks betting begins Tuesday
Those with a debilitating fear of getting shut out of wagering on the Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks can rest easy because Churchill Downs is opening the pari-mutuel wagering pools for those races on Tuesday.
Churchill has in the recent past opened wagering for its two marquee races as well as the special two-day Oaks-Derby Double wager on Thursday of Kentucky Derby week, but it has taken steps to open wagering for those pools Tuesday this year.
"Opening the pools earlier for the most anticipated races on the calendar helps build even more excitement for the greatest two minutes in sports," Churchill Downs Inc. vice president of racing Gary Palmisano Jr. said. "One of the benefits to moving the draw up to Saturday was having the tote system prepared to offer this early wagering opportunity."
Because wagering on these races will be available before the scratch time of 9 a.m. EDT on Friday, the also-eligible horses in each race will be available for betting. Regular scratch rules will apply to bets on all horses: you can cancel your bet or receive a refund when the main field is official.
Click here for a more detailed look at the complete Oaks-Derby weekend wagering menu, including multi-day and special multi-race bets.
Live racing at Churchill Downs resumes Tuesday.