The Kentucky Derby has been run 150 times, and this annual sporting event on the first Saturday in May has had its share of upsets. The longest-price winner was Donerail in 1913.
Rich Strike’s victory in the Run for the Roses is a testament to the unpredictable nature of the Kentucky Derby. As the second-longest shot to win the race, he defied the odds and paid $163.90 in 2022, a rare and memorable upset.
Let’s look at some recent upsets in the Kentucky Derby since 200.
Animal Kingdom lit up the tote board in 2011, paying $43.80. John Velasquez, trained by Graham Motion, won his first Kentucky Derby.
Giacomo came from behind and picked up the pieces in 2005. Mike Smith piloted his first Kentucky Derby win on the 50/1 longshot.
Mine That Bird continued the upsets in 2009 with Calvin Borel saving ground at the rail and giving Mine That Bird a 50/1 rail-skimming victory.
I’ll Have Another was an upset winner of the 2012 Kentucky Derby. Mario Gutierrez guided the 15/1 shot down the stretch, catching the lone speed Bodemeister in the shadow of the wire.