Kentucky Derby 2020: Start time and how to watch the race

Protests and coronavirus will mean a very different event this year

The 146th Kentucky Derby takes place at Churchill Downs with no fans present (Getty Images)

The Kentucky Derby takes place in Louisville today (5 September) amid ongoing protests around the killing of black American Breonna Taylor by police in the city in March.

This year marks the 146th edition of the historic horse race, and while it is expected to be impacted somewhat by the protests, it has already been affected by the coronavirus pandemic.

The event would usually take place in May, but the ongoing Covid-19 crisis resulted in a new date, as well as a reduced field and a lack of spectators.

Here’s everything you need to know about the biggest horse race in the United States.

Where is it taking place?

The Kentucky Derby is taking place at the Churchill Downs racecourse in Louisville, Kentucky, as is customary.

Is there just one race?

There will be 14 races at the event, with the Kentucky Derby itself being the last of the day.

What time does it start?

The event will get under way at around 2.30pm ET, with the actual Kentucky Derby race set for approximately 7.02pm ET.

How many horses will compete?

Sixteen horses will take part in the Kentucky Derby itself, the fewest number of entrants in 17 years.

What are the odds?

Tiz the Law: 4/6 (-150)

Thousand Words: 16/1 (1600)

Max Player: 25/1 (2500)

Enforceable: 50/1 (5000)

Storm the Court: 50/1 (5000)

Mr Big News: 80/1 (8000)

Honor A P: 5/1 (500)

Sole Volante: 33/1 (3300)

Major Fed: 50/1 (5000)

Necker Island: 100/1 (10000)

Authentic: 11/1 (1100)

NY Traffic: 22/1 (2200)

Attachment Rate: 50/1 (5000)

Money Moves: 40/1 (4000)

South Bend: 80/1 (8000)

Winning Impression: 100/1 (10000)