Kentucky Derby 2026 Horse Racing Terms Explained

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

With the 2026 Kentucky Derby just around the corner, a new educational video has been released to help fans understand some of the more obscure terms and jargon used in thoroughbred horse racing. The video, produced by the Courier-Journal, aims to demystify the specialized vocabulary of the sport ahead of the big race at Churchill Downs.

Why it matters

The Kentucky Derby is one of the most prestigious and widely watched horse races in the world, attracting millions of casual fans along with hardcore racing enthusiasts. Providing an accessible guide to common racing terms can help broaden the appeal of the sport and make it more enjoyable for newcomers to follow the action and understand the nuances of the competition.

The details

The educational video covers a range of horse racing terminology, from "furlong" (an eighth of a mile) to "exacta" (correctly predicting the first and second place finishers). It also explains concepts like "silks" (the colorful uniforms worn by jockeys), "blinkers" (equipment used to restrict a horse's peripheral vision), and "post position" (the starting position of each horse on the track).

• The 2026 Kentucky Derby is scheduled for May 3, 2026.

What’s next

The Courier-Journal plans to release additional educational content in the lead-up to the 2026 Kentucky Derby to help fans of all levels better understand and appreciate the sport of thoroughbred racing.