Hall of Fame Jockey Auctions Off 3 Derby Trophies

Calvin Borel's Kentucky Derby memorabilia hits the auction block

Apr. 8, 2026 at 10:18am

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A collection of three Kentucky Derby trophies won by Hall of Fame jockey Calvin Borel will be auctioned off later this month. Borel, who retired in 2021, is one of the most decorated jockeys in Derby history with three wins, and the auction represents a rare opportunity for racing fans and collectors to own a piece of that legacy.

Why it matters

Borel's Derby trophies are highly coveted items that provide a tangible link to the storied history and tradition of the Kentucky Derby, one of the most prestigious annual sporting events in the United States. The auction of these trophies offers a glimpse into the personal memorabilia of a legendary jockey and will likely draw significant interest from avid horse racing fans and collectors.

The details

The three trophies up for auction were won by Borel in 2007, 2010, and 2013. Each trophy stands approximately 22 inches tall and features the iconic twin spires of Churchill Downs as the centerpiece. Borel, who was inducted into the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame in 2013, is one of only seven jockeys to have won the Kentucky Derby three times.

  • The auction will take place on April 22, 2026.

The players

Calvin Borel

A Hall of Fame jockey who won the Kentucky Derby three times during his illustrious career, which spanned over two decades.

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What they’re saying

“These trophies represent the pinnacle of my career and hold immense sentimental value. However, I believe it's time to share them with the racing community and the next generation of fans who can appreciate their significance.”

— Calvin Borel

What’s next

The auction house expects the trophies to fetch between $75,000 and $100,000 each, with the proceeds going to a charity of Borel's choice.

The takeaway

The auction of Calvin Borel's Kentucky Derby trophies offers a rare opportunity for racing enthusiasts to own a piece of the sport's storied history, while also providing the legendary jockey a chance to give back to the community that supported his remarkable career.