When is post time for Kentucky Derby 2021?

Post time for the Kentucky Derby is set for 6.57 p.m. on Saturday May 1, and is scheduled as Race 12 on a 14-race program. The Derby has been run on the first Saturday in May all but two times since its inception.

Last year’s race was initially scheduled for the traditional May date, but was moved due to the COVID pandemic. The race was instead run on September 5, and Authentic came away the victor for trainer Bob Baffert, defeating post-time favorite Tiz the Law, who came in off a win in the Belmont Stakes.

Previously, the Derby had been rescheduled in 1945, due to World War 2. Initially scheduled for May 5 that year, the race was moved to June 9, when it was won by Hoop Jr., trained by Ivan Parke and ridden by Eddie Arcaro.

This year’s Derby is set to feature a 20-horse field, led by 2-1 morning-line favorite Essential Quality. Trained by Brad Cox, the Tapit colt comes into the race off a win in the April 3 Blue Grass Stakes (G2) at Keeneland, where he beat out fellow Derby contenders Highly Motivated, Hidden Stash and Keepmeinmind.

A win would be a first in the Kentucky Derby for Cox. Essential Quality is undefeated through five starts including the Blue Grass, the Southwest Stakes (G3) at Oaklawn Park and the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile at Keeneland in November.

Other top trainers looking for their first Kentucky Derby win are Chad Brown, who will run Highly Motivated and Steve Asmussen, who will have both Midnight Bourbon and Super Stock in the race.

The 2021 edition of the race will include the return of fans under the twin spires. Capacity will be limited, but the presence will be welcome after no fans were allowed in the 2020 Derby in September.