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Gender Equality at the Kentucky Derby

Both Male and Female Horses Race in the Kentucky Derby

The Kentucky Derby is one of the most prestigious horse races in the world, and it is open to both male and female horses. Every year, the race brings the fastest thoroughbreds from around the world to Churchill Downs in Louisville for a chance to win the coveted trophy.

Female Horses in the Kentucky Derby: Breaking Barriers

Historically, female horses have faced significant barriers in the horse racing industry. However, in recent years, there has been a growing movement to level the playing field for female horses. As a result, female horses have begun to make their mark in the Kentucky Derby.

In 1992, a filly named Winning Colors became the first female horse to win the Kentucky Derby in over 60 years. Since then, several other female horses have finished in the top three, including Rachel Alexandra (2009), Beholder (2012), and Swiss Skydiver (2020).

The Oaks, a gender-specific race, allows only 3-year-old female horses or fillies to qualify and compete. This race was first run in 1875 and is also held at Churchill Downs the day before the Kentucky Derby.

The inclusion of female horses in the Kentucky Derby is a testament to the growing gender equality in the horse racing industry. As more female horses continue to break barriers, they are inspiring a new generation of horse racing fans.

Newsweek