FRANKLIN, Ky. (WBKO) – Horses and jockeys came from all over to compete in the Nashville Derby Invitational Stakes held at Kentucky Downs.
This seven day competition has a variety of purses and prizes for competitors to win. Saturday’s competition featured 12 different races, giving racers multiple opportunities to place.
Director of Marketing John Wholihan describes the variety of horses at the race and the high stakes that come with competing.
“We tend to attract horses from many states. They come in here partially because of the big money, and there’s a bit of prestige now with our races including graded stakes, races with purses that go over $1,000,000,” said Wholihan.
Horse Trainer Ryan Walsh says this race comes with a lot of preparation for the horses and isn’t something taken lightly for those involved in the sport.
“It’s very enjoyable. I mean, it’s seven days a week, which isn’t for everybody because they need to train,“ said Walsh. ”They need to exercise, they need to eat and get their stall clean. So I mean, you’re very committed when you’re in this industry, but it’s fun, it’s a lifestyle.”
Professional jockey Jose Ortiz already got four wins on his first day. Ortiz said he has more goals to accomplish moving forward throughout the competition.
“Opening day, we had a great day, we got four wins, said Ortiz. ”It’s great to get a jump start. We won a stake already. Obviously I want to go for leading rider, so yeah, it’s a great start.”
Coming from a family of riders, Ortiz grew up with racing and even went to school for it. He hopes to continue competing for at least the next 10 years.
“My grandpa was a rider, my uncle was a rider and my older brother is a rider as well, said Ortiz. “At 16, I went to a jockey school in Puerto Rico. I was in a two year program there and I graduated from that and I moved to the United States.”
Concluding the second day of racing with a win from colt Wimbledon Hawkeye and jockey Frankie Detorri.
Governor Andy Beshear was the one who presented Detorri with his trophy: a signed guitar in honor of the Nashville Derby.
Races will continue after Saturday and are planning to conclude Wednesday, Sept. 10.
For more information on races or Kentucky Downs, visit themintgaming.com.
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