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HISTORY

of

THE KENTUCKY DERBY

1875-1921

BY

JOHN L. O’CONNOR

Copyright 1921
John L. O’Connor

CONTENTS

PREFACE

With no pretense to authorship or claim for originality on the part of the compiler, this work is offered as a reference book. For many, the plain facts of each year’s Kentucky Derby will be of sufficient interest. To the countless followers of Turf happenings the material herein will refresh the memory and awaken happy reminiscence.

This compilation is made mainly from the columns of The Thoroughbred Record, a Kentucky publication, and I am indebted to the graciousness of its editor, Mr. John E. Rubbathan, for the privilege to use the material from his invaluable repository. Mr. Douglas Anderson, author of “Making the American Thoroughbred,” by his encouragement has made light the labor incident to compilation. To Mr. Gurney C. Gue, of the New York Herald, I owe a debt of gratitude for his helpful advice.

In conclusion, if these efforts prove acceptable to my brethren of the Turf and tend in any degree to promote and keep up the spirit of Racing, the object in giving as much time to the subject as I have done, will be accomplished and my end attained.

White Plains, N. Y.
April First, 1921.

FIRST DERBY 1875

To-day will ever be historic in the turf annals of Kentucky, as the first “Derby Day,” of what I hope to see a long series of turf festivities. If the officers of the Association could have had the pick from the calendar of the year, there could not have been a more delightful and charming day. The morning broke without a cloud visible in the heavens, while a cool breeze was wafted over the course, tempering the increasing rays of the sun. It was just such a day in May

When the sun is rejoicing above in heaven,
The clouds have all hurried away.
Down in the meadow the blossoms are waking,
Light on their twigs the young leaves are shaking,
Round the warm knolls the lambs are a leaping,
The colt from his fold o’er the pasture is sweeping,
But on the bright lake,
The little waves break,
For there the cool west is at play.

The course was in splendid order, and all the appurtenances requisite for the comfort and convenience of racing was ready to hand. In company with a friend we started early for the course, thinking that we would reach it before the crowd, but by half past eleven o’clock we found enough people to make a respectable show. As the hour approached for the opening of the ball, every avenue leading to the course was thronged with people making their way to it. It was indeed a Derby Day in all respects. With the two railroads leading to the course, the street cars, hacks and private vehicles, when the first bell was rung for the riders, the Grand Stand presented one solid mass of human faces, while the quarter-stretch, the public stand, and a portion of the field was covered with people. There could not have been less than 10,000 persons on the course, composed of all grades of society, the banker, the merchant, the gentleman of leisure and pleasure seeker, the butcher, the baker, the candlestick maker, et id omne genus. That portion of the Grand Stand devoted to the ladies was one grand bouquet of beauty, refinement and intelligence. The ladies in the various costumes looked like so many parti-colored butterflies, balancing themselves on their wings, in the slanting rays of the bright sun. At one time you met a beauty with such sweetness in her upturned eyes, such as fancy lends to the Madonna; at another point, one on whose lips the words laugh, and whose stately steps

Are light, as though a winged angel trod
Over earth flowers, and fear’d to brush away
Their delicate hues.

All the shades of beauty is fully represented, from the blonde to the brunette, from the matron, whose hair is threaded with the silver, to the young girl just blushing into womanhood, whose cheeks are as ruby red as a peach that has been kissed by the sun.

The Derby came next, and fifteen finer or handsomer youngsters never faced a starter. McGrath’s entries had the call in the betting and many thought he would win with Chesapeake, but Aristides, the son of Leamington, carried off the honors, and worthily earned a chaplet, one of the best three-year-olds ever stripped for a race in this country. It was extremely gratifying to the friends of the liberal Laird of McGrathiana, and will be doubly gratifying to Aristides Welch, the owner of Leamington, after whom the colt is christened. This is the best race at the weights ever run by three-year-olds in this country, and cannot fail to make Aristides a still stronger favorite for his Eastern engagements.

SUMMARY

The Kentucky Derby, three-year-olds; $50 play or pay; Association to add $1000; second horse to have $200. Dash of one and a half miles. Closed with 42 nominations. Value $3,100.

Betting—McGrath $260, Ascension $150, Searcher $120, Bill Bruce $80, Verdigris $70, Volcano $60, the field $50.

THE KENTUCKY DERBY

The fifteen youngsters assembled at the half mile pole. Little or no delay took place under the able directorship of Col. W. H. Johnson. When they were marshaled into line, he tapped the drum to one of the most capital starts I have ever seen, the fifteen going away like a platoon of cavalry, except the Baywood colt, who hung at the post. Volcano jumped away first, with McCreery second, and Searcher third, the remainder bunched, coming round the turn to the quarter pole 25½ seconds. They came at a rapid rate down the stretch and past the stand in 50 seconds, McCreery first, Volcano second, Searcher third, Aristides fourth, the others pretty well bunched. Before they had reached the quarter, 1:17, Aristides had gone to the front and opened a gap of two lengths down the back stretch, Volcano second, Searcher third, the mile 1:43¼. The pace was so hot that it began to tell and the field was stretched over a good deal of ground. The race from this point home was never in doubt, Aristides winning by two lengths with something in hand, Volcano second, a length in front of Verdigris third, who came rapidly on the home stretch inside the distance. Bob Woolley who was caromed against on the lower turn a good fourth. Ten Broeck fifth, the Baywood colt sixth, Bill Bruce seventh, the remainder were scattered at wide intervals, and the dust was so great that I was unable to place the others. Time—2:37¾.

DESCRIPTION OF THE WINNER

Aristides is a chestnut colt, with a star, and two white pasterns behind. He stands fifteen hands, one and three-quarter inches high. He has a neat head and neck running into rather a straight shoulder, with great length, good barrel, excellent hips and stifles, sound feet and legs well under him. He has fine turn of speed, and from the way he finished up the Derby to-day gives every evidence of being a good stayer. He was bred by Mr. H. P. McGrath, at McGrathiana Stud Farm, near Lexington, Ky., and is by Imp. Leamington, out of Sarong, by Lexington, her dam The Greek Slave, by Imp. Glencoe—Margaret Hunter, by Imp. Margrave—Mary Hunt, by Bertrand—Betty Coons, by Hephestion—by Hampton’s Twig—by Imp. Bedford—by Harlequin—by Imp. Fearnaught.

SECOND DERBY 1876

Eleven out of the thirty-four nominations went to the post, and after some delay, caused by the breakaway and anxiety of a few of the colts to get off in front, Col. Robt. Johnson, who officiated in this race, sent them away to a good start, Parole in the lead, Creedmoor second, Vagrant third, Bullion fourth, Bombay fifth, Harry Hill sixth, Red Coat seventh, and the remainder in pretty close order. Before going half way around the turn, Vagrant had taken the lead, with Parole second, Creedmoor, third. From the three-quarter pole to the stand some changes took place, Vagrant leading, Bullion two lengths, second, Harry Hill third, Parole fourth, Bombay fifth, Creedmoor sixth, the remainder outpaced, strung out in single file. Vagrant maintained his lead around the turn and just before reaching the quarter pole, 1:17½, some one, many thought Harry Hill, ran into and cut Bullion down and dropped back, Harry Hill taking his position, with Creedmoor third. Before reaching the half mile the race had resolved itself into a match between Vagrant and Creedmoor. But it was never in doubt, for Vagrant galloped along at his ease and his big stride, and won the race, like he has all the others, in a big gallop by more than a length, Harry Hill, two lengths from him, third, Bombay fourth, Red Coat fifth, Harper’s black filly by Enquirer sixth, Leamingtonian seventh, Marie Michon eighth, Bullion ninth, Parole tenth and Germantown eleventh. The quarter 26, half 51, three-quarters 1:17½, mile 1:45, mile and a quarter 2:11¾, mile and a half 2:38¼.

DESCRIPTION AND PEDIGREE

Vagrant is a dark bay gelding, blaze face, four white stockings, and stands a shade over 15¾ hands. He was bred at the Preakness Stud Farm, the property of M. H. Sanford, Esq., and was purchased as a yearling by T. J. Nichols, Paris, Ky., for $250. He has a neat head and neck, good shoulders, excellent middle piece, great length, immense hips and quarters and tremendous stifles, with sound feet and legs. His action is easy and graceful, a regular daisy cutter, and from his style and carriage must go a distance of ground.

Vagrant is by Virgil (son of Vandal and Hymenia by Imp. Yorkshire; 1st dam Lazy, by Imp. Scythian; 2d dam Lindora, by Lexington; 3d dam Picayune, by Medoc; 4th dam Sally Howe, by Sir William of Transport; 5th dam Lady Robin, by Robin Grey; 6th dam by Quicksilver (son of imp. Medley); 7th dam by Meede’s Celer.

He started in his two-year-old form six times, won five, and beaten once. He won the Alexander Stakes, half mile, at Louisville, Ky., in 50¼, beating Harry Hill, Russ Butler and ten others. Same meeting with 5 lbs. penalty, ran third to Creedmoor for the Tennessee Stakes, three-quarters of a mile in 1:22½ track deep in mud. At Lexington, Ky., won sweepstakes for 2-year-old colts, three-quarters of a mile, beating The Nipper, Creedmoor, and six others, in 1:18. Same meeting won the sweepstakes for two-year-old colts and fillies, one mile, beating Clemmie G., The Nipper, and five others, in 1:45½. At Louisville Fall Meeting, won the Belle Meade Stakes, three-quarters of a mile, beating Bengal, Bombay, and nine others, in 1:17¼. Same meeting won the Sanford Stakes, one mile, beating Alborac, Miriam filly, and several others, in 1:46.

At Lexington, Ky., Spring Meeting of 1876, won the Phoenix Hotel Stakes, 1⅛ miles, by more than a distance, beating Clemmie G., Knapsack, Very Fine and Yandall, in 1:56¾. Besides winning the Kentucky Derby, at Louisville, in present meeting, he is engaged in the Clark Stakes, two miles, and same place in fall on the St. Leger, two miles and Galt House Stakes, two mile heats, the Grand Exposition Stakes, 1½ miles at Philadelphia, the Breckenridge Stakes, two miles, at Baltimore, and the Suwanee Stakes, two mile heats, at Nashville Fall Meetings.

The Kentucky Derby, for three-year olds, $50 play or pay, with $1,500 added, second to have $200. One and a half miles, 34 nominations. Value $3,200.

Betting—Just before the start, Vagrant even against the field.

THIRD DERBY 1877

Persons who long wished and desired a beautiful day for the Kentucky Derby were fully gratified Tuesday. The sun was out bright and the excessive heat for the past week was tempered by a gentle breeze that made it all the more enjoyable, albeit it militated some against faster time.

The course, from the heavy rain of Sunday, was not in the best possible condition, and in some places was a little deep and uneven. Early in the morning preparations commenced for the day’s sport, and the crowded condition of the hotels betokened a large attendance, and long before the call bell was sounded to summon the jockeys and horses, the grand stand, quarter-stretch, field and field stand were crowded to repletion with an anxious crowd of spectators. The sky was flecked here and there with a few masses of clouds, but there was nothing threatening about them. Now and then they served the purpose of a veil, which hid the fierce glances of the sun, and cast a shade over the vast crowd that was gathered on the emerald green fields. Rarely, indeed, have the magnificent landscapes which can be viewed on either side from the grand stand and its neighborhood, looked more lovely. Behind, looking, we see the Nashville railroad winding its way like a snake through green fields and woodlands until it is lost in the distance. In front to one side you see the curling smoke arising from the city, with a cloud of dust that indicates the road over which the vast crowd is coming, bent on pleasure. To the left lay green fields and woodlands, rejoicing in the light luxuriant foliage of May; meadows and fields surrounded by whitened fences, here and there a cottage dotted over the plain with their smoke curling lazily upwards. Away beyond this could be seen the green hills running in a semi-circle, indicating where the beautiful Ohio winds its way and marked the boundary between Kentucky and Indiana.

For the Derby, eleven out of the forty-one nominations sported silk. Leonard was a hot favorite, and the race resulted in his overthrow by Baden-Baden, who was third choice in the betting. If Leonard could have won, his chances were destroyed by the way in which the race was managed. He made all the running, took the lead and set himself up as a target for the others to shoot at, and right gallantly did Lisbon serve his stable companion, Baden-Baden, for three-quarters of a mile at a clipping pace, and then dropped back. Vera Cruz, who was backed with considerable spirit by his friends, had his chances destroyed by being left at the post. King William ran a good race, and for a colt that has had the knocking about and hammering that he has, he is one of the best three-year-olds that has appeared this year. His performance should add greatly to the reputation of his young sire, Foster, one of the best bred sons of Lexington. The race was an excellent one for the condition of the course.

After some three or four breakaways, the eleven were despatched to a good start, except Vera Cruz, who reared and plunged just as the drum tapped, Dan K. showing in front, but was soon passed by Lisbon, who cut out the work at a sharp pace, the quarter 26½ seconds. Entering the stretch Leonard showed in front and had a lead of half a length at the stand, with Lisbon and King William second and third, the remainder in pretty close order, the half mile 52 seconds. Going around the turn King William joined Leonard, and Lisbon dropped back, Baden-Baden taking his place, the three-quarters 1:18. Going down the back stretch Leonard led King William a length, the latter whipping, with Baden-Baden at his quarters, the mile 1:44¾. The two took close order on the turn, and just before entering the stretch at the three-quarter pole, the mile and a quarter 2:11½, Baden-Baden showed his nose in front, Leonard second, lapped by King William, all three driving. It was a beautiful and exciting finish to the stand, Baden-Baden winning by little over a length, Leonard second, a head in front of King William, third. Vera Cruz, who reared and was left at the post, overhauled his horses and finished fourth, with Odd Fellow fifth, lapped by McWhirter sixth, Malvern seventh, Earlylight eighth, Dan K. ninth, Lisbon tenth, and Headlight eleventh. Time—2:38.

DESCRIPTION OF WINNER

Baden-Baden is a dark chestnut colt, with a star, stands 16 hands high, with a plain head, good neck, well placed shoulders, with plenty of length, good back and loins, and sound feet and legs. There is nothing striking about him, and he greatly resembles his own brother, Helmbold, and has bred back after his sire.

He was bred by A. J. Alexander, Woodburn Stud Farm, Spring Station, Ky., and purchased by D. Swigert, Stockwood Farm, as a yearling for $1,010, by imp. Australian, out of Lavender by Wagner, her dam Alice Carneal by imp. Sarpedon—Rowena by Sumpter—Lady Gray by Robin Gray—Maria by Melzar—by imp. Highflyer—by imp. Fearnaught—by Ariel—by Jack of Diamonds—imp. Diamond by Cullen Arabian—Lady Thigh by Croft’s Partner—by Greyhound—Sophonisba’s dam by Curwen’s Bay Barb—by D’Arcy’s Chestnut Arabian—by White-shirt—Old Montague mare.

Baden-Baden started five times at two years old, won one, lost four. He was unplaced at Lexington, Ky., for sweepstakes, one mile, won by Glentina in 1:45½. He ran second at Louisville, Ky., for the Belle Meade Stakes, three-quarters of a mile, won by McWhirter in 1:17. Same meeting ran second to Belle of the Meade for the Sanford Stakes, one mile, in 1:44¼. Same meeting ran second to Belle of the Meade, 100 lbs. each, for a sweepstakes, one mile, in 1:44¼, the best on record, and at Nashville won the Young America Stakes, one mile, in 1:46¾, beating King William, Barbara, Joe Burt and Alice Murphy.

He has the following engagements: The Belle Meade Stake No. 2, 2 miles, the Suwanee Stakes, 2 mile heats, Nashville Fall meeting; the Clark Stakes, 2 miles, Louisville spring meeting; the Kentucky St. Leger, 2 miles, and the Galt House Stakes, two mile heats, fall meeting, at Louisville, Ky.; the Dixie Stakes, 2 miles, at Baltimore; the Belmont, 1½ miles, the Jerome, 2 miles and All Aged stakes 1½ miles at Jerome Park; the Jersey Derby, 1½ miles, and the Robbins, 2 miles, at Long Branch; the Travers, 1¾ miles, and Kenner, 2 miles, at Saratoga, and the Woodburn Stakes, 2½ miles, at Jerome Park in 1878.

SUMMARY

The Kentucky Derby, for three-year-olds; $50 p. p., with $1,500 added; $200 to second horse. One and a half miles (41 subscribers). Value $3,550.

Betting—Leonard, $400; Field, $430.

FOURTH DERBY 1878

No better evidence would be wanted of the popularity and growing interest in racing than was the case to-day, the opening of the Spring meeting of the Louisville Jockey Club. The club have struck the keynote of success in throwing open the inner field free to the public, which was graced to-day by some six or eight thousand people, as well behaved and orderly an assemblage as has ever been seen collected together. They came on foot, in every sort and kind of vehicles, and the grand stand and every other available space was full to overflowing to witness the first day, which gave one of the best races ever witnessed in America. But we must not anticipate our report. The sport proved to be of an interesting and most exciting character, and those who were present were more than repaid. This Association has been extremely fortunate in the way of weather, and to-day was no exception to the rule. The track was in admirable order, but many thought it was fully two seconds slow. The day was fine and springlike, a slight breeze tempering the otherwise warm rays of the sun. The fields, considering the number of horses on the grounds, were not as large as many anticipated, but as the favorites were overthrown, the crowd shouted themselves hoarse with joy.

For the Kentucky Derby, out of 56 nominations nine splendid colts faced the starter. Himyar was such a big favorite, 3 to 1 over the field, that he was left out of the pools, and Day Star was next in favor, closely pushed by Bergundy and Leveller. The result is easily told. Day Star made all his running and won the race like the first-class colt that he is, just as he did the Blue Ribbon at Lexington. Himyar was miserably ridden, and ran fully sixty or seventy-five yards farther in the race than was necessary. This defeat does not lessen him in our estimation, and we look upon him as the greatest colt of the year, with Day Star little inferior.

After three or four false starts the lot were sent away to a capital one, except for Charlie Bush, Bergundy, and the favorite, Himyar, who seemed to hang fire, which enabled the lot to get some six to ten lengths the start. At the half-mile pole Day Star was first, McHenry second, Respond third, Leveller fourth, Solicitor fifth, Earl of Beaconsfield sixth, Charlie Bush seventh, Burgundy eighth, and Himyar ninth. Day Star cut out the work at rapid rate, no change occurring at the three-quarter pole. Day Star passed the stand two lengths in front of McHenry, Respond third, Leveller fourth, Himyar fifth, Charlie Bush sixth, Solicitor seventh, Earl of Beaconsfield eighth, and Burgundy, who was knocked to his knees on the lower turn, ninth. Day Star held his lead round the turn and after passing the quarter-pole; Himyar, who was ridden miserably, running on the extreme outside on the turn, took second place, with Leveller third. The race was now over; Day Star was never headed and won easily by two lengths, the spur being freely applied with an occasional touch of the whip in the last quarter; Himyar second, four lengths in front of Leveller, third, followed by Solicitor, McHenry, Respond, Burgundy, Earl of Beaconsfield, and Charlie Bush in the order named. Quarter 25; half 50; three-quarters 1:16½; mile 1:43; mile and a quarter 2:09¼; the race 2:37¼.

DESCRIPTION OF WINNER

Day Star is a chestnut colt, with star and light stripe down the face, three white stockings, a little white on the left hind pastern, and gray hairs scattered through the flank. He is 15 hands 2½ inches high, is an extremely handsome colt, neat head, stout strong neck, well inclined shoulders, extraordinary short stout back, well coupled, broad flat ribs, drops down full in the flank, good hips and quarters, immense stifles, broad flat legs which he keeps well under him and has an extra turn of speed. Day Star was bred by Jno. M. Clay, Esq., Ashland, near Lexington, Ky., and purchased a yearling by T. J. Nichols, Paris, Ky., for $825, by Star Davis out of Squeez’em by Lexington, her dam Skedaddle by imp. Yorkshire, out of Magnolia, by imp. Glencoe, the dam of Daniel Boone, Kentucky Gilroy, &c., &c. Day Star has a double Glencoe cross through his sire Star Davis, and his great grandam Magnolia.

SUMMARY

The Kentucky Derby, for three-year-olds; $50 p. p., with $1,500 added; second to have $200. Dash of 1½ miles. 56 nominations, three of whom are dead. Value $4,150. Colts 100 lbs., fillies 97 lbs.

Betting—Himyar $305; Field $110. With Himyar out, Day Star, Burgundy and Leveller sold about even.

FIFTH DERBY 1879

For the Kentucky Derby, Lord Murphy was made the favorite at nearly even against the field, and fully justified the high opinion in which he is held by his friends in running the fastest Kentucky Derby on record. His trainer, George H. Rice, brought him to the post in the pink of order. Though Falsetto and Strathmore were defeated they lost no credit and proved themselves excellent colts, and we should not be surprised to see Falsetto rank yet with the best of the year.

The entire lot went away like a platoon of cavalry in line to a beautiful start, Gen. Pike in the lead, Strathmore second, Lord Murphy, who got knocked to his knees on the first turn, third, Wissahicon fourth, Trinidad fifth, One Dime sixth, Ada Glen seventh, Buckner eighth, Falsetto ninth. Half way round the turn the lot were so closely bunched that it was impossible to distinguish the colors in the clouds of dust. At the three-quarter pole Ada Glen was first, lapped by Gen. Pike, Strathmore and Lord Murphy. At the stand Gen. Pike was a head in front of Strathmore second, he lapped by Trinidad, then came the second division a length off, composed of One Dime, Wissahicon, Lord Murphy and Ada Glen, followed by Buckner eighth and Falsetto ninth. They had hardly gone under the string until Strathmore was a length in front of Gen. Pike, who was lapped by Trinidad. Going round the turn the pace was fast, Strathmore still leading at the quarter pole. Just after passing the quarter Lord Murphy took second place, One Dime third, Gen. Pike and Trinidad dropping back. Before reaching the half-mile Lord Murphy lapped and showed in front of Strathmore second, One Dime third, Falsetto fourth. Lord Murphy was a length in front on the lower turn and at the three-quarter pole, Strathmore second, two lengths in front of One Dime third, who was lapped by Falsetto. Entering the stretch Falsetto came with a rush and passed One Dime and Strathmore and half way down lapped Lord Murphy. A most exciting race took place between the pair to within forty yards of the stand, where Lord Murphy drew clear and won the race by a length and a half, Falsetto second, three lengths in front of Strathmore third, followed by Trinidad fourth, Ada Glen fifth, One Dime sixth, Gen. Pike seventh, Buckner eighth, Wissahicon ninth. Mile 1:45; race 2:37.

DESCRIPTION OF WINNER

Lord Murphy (formerly Patmos), bay colt, star and snip running down over the nostrils, with two white heels behind extending nearly half way to the hocks. He stands full 15 hands 3½ inches high, has a neat head and neck, plenty of length, good hips, quarters and stifles, with sound feet and legs. He has a great turn of speed, the first and greatest requisite in a race horse, and is a Lexington looking youngster, and must bring his sire, Pat Malloy, prominently to the front as one of the best sons of Lexington at the stud.

Lord Murphy was bred by J. T. Carter, Gallatin, Tenn., and purchased the spring he was two years old by Messrs. G. W. Darden and G. H. Rice of Nashville, Tenn., by Pat Malloy, out of Wenonah by Capt. Elgee, her dam by imp. Albion, out of a mare by Pacific, running back through Bet Bosley, by imp. Bluster to imported Mare of Harrison of Brandon.

SUMMARY

The Kentucky Derby, for three-year-olds, $50 entrance, play or pay, with $1,500 added; $200 to second horse; dash of one mile and a half. Value of stake $3,800. Colts 100 lbs., fillies and geldings 97 lbs. 46 nominations.

Betting—Lord Murphy $175, Strathmore and Falsetto $60 each, Trinidad $45, Ada Glen $25, Field $30.

SIXTH DERBY 1880

The Derby was booked a moral for Kimball. While it was a great disappointment to his backers to see him lower his colors to Fonso, he lost no credit in the race, for in our judgment it is by odds the best Derby ever run since its inauguration, when everything is taken into consideration. The colts carried five pounds more this year than heretofore, and the track was certainly a second slower than we have seen it any previous year, Fonso covering himself with honor, and must bring his sire prominently to the front. Fonso cut out his own work, did all the running, held the lead from start to finish, and won like a first-class racehorse. The last mile was run in 1:44¼, and the last half in 51¼ seconds, showing it to be a splendid race. Such a performance as that of Kimball would have won five out of six Derbies.

With little or no delay the five went away to a good start, Fonso in the lead, lapped by Kimball, Boulevard third, Bancroft fourth, Quito fifth. Fonso cut out the work at a good pace, and led Kimball by a length at the three-quarters, which he held at the stand, Boulevard half a length from him, third, Quito fourth, Bancroft fifth. Going round the upper turn Fonso increased his lead and passing the quarter was two lengths in front of Kimball second, Boulevard third, Quito fourth, Bancroft fifth, about a length each separating the last four named. Nearing the half mile Kimball drew up to Fonso, when the latter received a cut of the whip and darted away again, Bancroft taking third place, Boulevard fourth, Quito fifth. It was a beautiful race round the lower turn. Entering the stretch Kimball was at Fonso’s quarters, the race being reduced to a match between the two. Fairly in the home stretch both were whipping, Fonso answering gamely to the three or four licks he received, came away and won a splendid race a little over a length, Kimball second, two lengths in front of Bancroft third, he a length in front of Boulevard fourth, and Quito four lengths from him finished fifth. Half mile 53¼, three-quarters 1:19¾, mile 1:46¼, race 2:37½. The mile from the stand back to the stand was run in 1:44¼, and the last half mile in 51¼ seconds.

DESCRIPTION OF WINNER

Fonso is a dark chestnut colt, with a star and two white feet behind up over the pasterns. He has grown and thickened greatly since last year, and stands full 15¾ hands high. He is a very neat, wiry colt, with a good head and rather short neck, which runs into well inclined shoulders. He has great length of body, deep through the heart, good hips and stifles with sound feet and legs. He has the best of tempers, and is rather inclined to need forcing to make him run.

He was bred by A. J. Alexander, Woodburn Farm, Spring Station, Ky., and purchased as a yearling by J. S. Shawhan, Shawhan, Ky., for $200, by King Alfonso, out of imp. Weatherwitch by Weatherbit, her dam by Irish Birdcatcher, out of Colocynth.

SUMMARY

The Kentucky Derby, for three-year-olds, $100 entrance, half forfeit, with $1,500 added, of which $200 to second. 1½ miles, 47 entries, four of whom are dead. Value $3,850.

Betting—Kimball $700, Quito $362, Fonso $222, Bancroft $50, Boulevard $——.

SEVENTH DERBY 1881

On Tuesday morning, “Derby Day,” the sun rose clear and not a cloud was to be seen, which with westerly wind was the precursor of a gloriously fine day. The attendance was very large. All the stands and betting enclosures were inconveniently crowded, and in the inner field the rails for near a quarter of a mile were lined with people from six to ten deep, while the field, clad in the greenest of spring verdure, was thickly dotted over with every variety of conveyance, from the cart to the splendid coach and landau.

For the Kentucky Derby, only half a dozen sported silk for this valuable and important event. Hindoo was such a big favorite that little money was wagered on him, he being the favorite at 5 to 2 over the field. The race was never in doubt, but Hindoo had to have the whip, his jockey giving him two raps as he entered the stretch, and he won easy at the finish by four lengths, Lelex beating Alfambra half a length for second place. The official time of the race, 2:40, is not correct, but will have to stand. The party throwing the flag threw it as soon as the drum tapped, long before the horses reached the pole. The correct time is 2:38½.

Calycanthus was not disposed to join his horses, but was finally brought up, Lelex in the lead, Calycanthus second, Hindoo third, Getaway fourth, Alfambra fifth, Sligo sixth. Before reaching the three-quarter pole Calycanthus took the lead, with Lelex second, Hindoo third. Passing the stand Calycanthus was half a length in front of Hindoo, second, who was a like distance ahead of Lelex, third, followed by Sligo, Alfambra and Getaway. At the quarter Hindoo was a head in front of Calycanthus, Lelex third, Sligo fourth. Before reaching the half Lelex was a length in front and the cry went up that Hindoo, who was second, was beaten, Sligo third. On the lower turn Hindoo moved up and showed in front, and on entering the stretch began to loaf a little, and his jockey gave him a couple of raps with the whip as a reminder, and he came away and won easy at the finish by four lengths. Lelex beat Alfambra a half length for second place, after a whipping race home. Sligo two lengths from Alfambra, fourth, Getaway fifth, Calycanthus sixth. Mile, 1:47½; race, 2:40.

DESCRIPTION OF WINNER AND PEDIGREE

Hindoo is a dark bay colt, with a star in his forehead and a slight number of gray hairs running down his face, and right hind foot white up to the pastern. He has grown and thickened since last year, and will make a 16-hand horse. His head is plain but intelligent, and he has a stout neck, well inclined shoulders, stout middle piece, great depth through the heart, a trifle long in the back, good hips, quarters, and stifles, with sound feet and legs, and his action when extended is easy and frictionless. Hindoo was bred by D. Swigert, Stockwood farm, Spring Station, Ky., and purchased at two-years-old by his present owners for $15,000. He started nine times at two-years-old and won seven. He has started twice this season and won the Blue Ribbon 1½ miles at Lexington, Ky., in 2:38, and the Kentucky Derby, 1½ miles, at Louisville, in 2:40. He has twenty-four more engagements this year, and, barring accidents, in our opinion, they all lay at his mercy.

SUMMARY

The Kentucky Derby, for three-year-olds; $100 each, half forfeit, or only $20 if declared out by May 1st, 1880, and $40 if declared out by May 1st, 1881, with $1,500 added; $200 to second, 1½ miles. (62 subscribers, of whom 9 declared, and two of whom are void by death of nominator). Value $4,610. Colts 105 lbs., fillies and geldings 102 lbs.

Betting—Hindoo $500, Lelex $70, McGrath $70, Alfambra $40, Getaway $25.

EIGHTH DERBY 1882

The fourteen candidates promptly assembled at the post, and at the fourth attempt the lot were sent away to a miserable, scattering start, Harry Gilmore in the lead, Babcock second, Robert Bruce third, Bengal fourth, Runnymede fifth, followed by the Pat Malloy-Canary Bird colt, Apollo, Wallensee, Lost Cause, Wendover, Monogram, Highflyer, Newsboy and Mistral, the latter getting away six lengths behind Newsboy. Passing the three-quarter pole Babcock was first, Bruce second, Harry Gilmore third, Bengal fourth, Runnymede fifth, Apollo sixth, the rest tailed off. Passing the stand Bruce and Harry Gilmore were head and head, a length in front of Babcock third, Runnymede fourth, Bengal fifth, Apollo sixth, the rest out of the race. No change on the turn, but at the quarter Harry Gilmore was a half length in front of Bruce second, a length ahead of Runnymede third. Before reaching the half Bruce, having shot his bolt, retired, Babcock taking second place, Runnymede third, Bengal fourth, Apollo fifth. The five took closer order on the turn, and entering the stretch Harry Gilmore was a half length in front of Runnymede second, Babcock and Apollo lapped, Bengal close up. Half way down it looked to be Runnymede’s race, he running easy with his mouth wide open, and the shout went up that he would win, but inside the furlong pole he quit, and Apollo coming with a wet sail after a driving race won by a length, Runnymede second, two lengths ahead of Bengal third, followed by Harry Gilmore, Monogram, Babcock, Wendover, Mistral, Wallensee, Pat Malloy colt, Highflyer, Newsboy, Bruce and Lost Cause in the order named. First half 51½, first mile 1:46¼, mile from stand to stand 1:48¾, race 2:40¼.

SUMMARY

The Kentucky Derby, for three-year-olds, $100 entrance, half forfeit, $20 if declared May 1st, 1881; $40 if declared May 1st, 1882, with $1,500 added; second to have $200. 1½ miles. 64 entries. Colts 105 lbs, fillies and geldings 102 lbs.

Betting—Runnymede $700, Mistral $100, Wendover $100, Lost Cause $80, Robert Bruce $60, Bengal $60, Field $150.

DESCRIPTION AND PEDIGREE OF WINNER.

Apollo is a chestnut gelding, bred by D. Swigert, Preakness Stud, Lexington, Ky. He stands 15 hands half an inch high, and the only white is on the left hind pastern. He has a rather heavy, plain head, wide jowls, good stout neck, which fills up his shoulders well, mounts high on the withers, deep chest, good length, arched loin, long quarters and hips, with excellent, clean and bony legs. Apollo is by Imp. Ashstead or Lever (no doubt by the latter), out of Rebecca T. Price by The Colonel, her dam by Imp. Margrave, out of Rosalie Summers by Sir Charles, her dam Mischief by Virginian, out of a mare by Imp. Bedford, &c.

NINTH DERBY 1883

If the prospects of a successful meeting were somewhat dampened by the heavy fall of rain for three days previous to its inauguration, ample amends were made for the postponement by the bright and genial sunshine that ushered in Wednesday morning, and the large and brilliant crowd that was in attendance on Derby Day. This was more to be wondered at for the reason that the weather had been so unseasonable, great coats and a fire feeling remarkably comfortable. Indeed in looking at the vast sea of upturned faces, to be seen in the Grand Stand, the lawn and the field, we were reminded of witnessing our first English Derby, when Umpire, the first American candidate who had ever appeared for this classic event, failed to obtain a place, and the race was won by Thormanby, a son of the renowned Alice Hawthorne, and what is remarkable, it happened on the same day, just twenty-three years ago.

At the first attempt the seven went away to a good start, Leonatus in the lead, Raglan second, Chatter third, followed by Kellar, Pike’s Pride, Drake Carter and Ascender. Before reaching the three-quarter pole Chatter had taken second place to Leonatus, Raglan third, followed by Ascender, Kellar, Pride’s Pike and Drake Carter. There was no change at the stand, and Leonatus was a length in front of Chatter at the quarter, Raglan third, Carter fourth, Ascender fifth, Kellar sixth, Pike’s Pride last. Before reaching the half Ascender made a spurt and was third, but he soon died away, Drake Carter taking third place. The truth of the whole affair summed up in a nut-shell is that Leonatus took the lead, made all his own running, was never headed, and won it in a big gallop by three lengths, Drake Carter second, a half length in front of Lord Raglan third, Ascender fourth, Kellar fifth, Pike’s Pride sixth, Chatter last. First quarter 27½, half 54, mile 1:49, race 2:43.

DESCRIPTION OF THE WINNER

Leonatus is a rich bay, blaze face, and two white heels behind above the pasterns. He stands full 15¾ hands high, and is certainly one of the smoothest and neatest sons of his distinguished sire. He has a neat, handsome head, stout neck, well inclined shoulders, good middle piece, with great length, excellent back and loins, and full hips and quarters, on sound good legs. He is rapid in motion, and keeps legs well under him. He was bred by Mr. J. Henry Miller, Lexington, Ky., and sold last winter to his present owners for $5,000. He is engaged in fifteen more stakes this year.

SUMMARY

The Kentucky Derby, for three-year-olds, $100 entrance, half forfeit, $20 if declared May 1st, 1882; $40 if declared May 1st, 1883, with $1,500 added; of which $200 to second, 1½ miles. 50 entries, 3 void, 1 declared May, 1882, 8 declared May 1883; value $4,020.

Betting—Ascender $275, Leonatus $260, Raglan $135, Carter $125, Kellar $41, Chatter $35, Pike’s Pride $20.

TENTH DERBY 1884

Every year the interest in the Kentucky Derby increases, and the desire to win also increases with breeders and owners, until it is looked upon as a mark of merit for the colt who is fortunate enough to bear off the Blue Ribbon of the Turf. More interest clusters in and about this race than any other of the year in America, and we have heard a number of prominent breeders and turfmen say that they would rather win the Kentucky Derby than any two events upon the American turf.

Bob Miles was slightly the favorite at the start, closely pressed by Buchanan and Audrain, and although the quality of the nine competitors was a little below the average that have run for the race, it seemed to lend an increased interest to the result. The horses were keenly criticised on their appearance and condition and little knots could be seen gathered together consulting as to who would win. Audrain who got bumped about did not run up to his form and his race for the Blue Ribbon Stakes at Lexington, in the mud, seemed to have taken away his speed. The Admiral behaved badly, trying to bolt in the first quarter, and did run out at the head of the home stretch. Buchanan won quite easily, and how much he had in hand we are unable to say. Bob Miles seemed to labor from the start, and the running proved what we have said all the spring—that the Derby colts of this spring, taken as a class, are far inferior to any previous year.

Nine went to the post and they were started out of the chute. After two or three breaks away the lot went off to a pretty start, Bob Miles in the lead, Powhattan III. second, Audrain third, followed by The Admiral, Loftin, Bob Cook, Exploit, Buchanan and Boreas. Entering the main track The Admiral was in the lead and tried to bolt, Bob Miles second, lapped by Loftin, the remainder of the lot bunched and in close order. Passing the stand The Admiral was two lengths in front of Loftin second, a length ahead of Powhattan third, followed in close order by Bob Miles, Exploit, Audrain, Bob Cook, Buchanan and Boreas. There was no change at the quarter except Bob Miles had dropped back to seventh place. Passing half they began to take closer order, The Admiral still leading about a length, Loftin second, Bob Miles, who got the whip on the back stretch, third, Bob Cook fourth, the rest bunched. Before reaching the three-quarters Loftin took the lead, The Admiral behaving badly and dropping back, Buchanan and Bob Miles lapped second and third, Audrain fourth. Entering the stretch Buchanan took the lead and showed signs of an inclination to run out, but Murphy soon straightened him and he came away and won quite easily by a length and a half, Loftin second three parts of a length in front of Audrain third, Bob Miles fourth, followed by Bob Cook, Boreas, The Admiral, Exploit and Powhattan III. in the order named. First half 52½, first mile 1:47, race 2:40¼.

DESCRIPTION OF WINNER

Buchanan is a good chestnut with a small star, and stands full 16 hands high. He is a very handsome colt, with a level and symmetrical frame on sound legs. The most fastidious critic could but be pleased with his general formation and racing-like look. He was bred jointly by Capt. Cottrill, Mobile, Ala., and J. W. Guest, Danville, Ky. The latter sold his half interest to Capt. Cottrill, who in turn sold a half interest in him and his stable in training to Capt. S. S. Brown of Pittsburgh, Pa. This is Buchanan’s maiden win. He started six times at two years old, was second five times and third once. He has started twice at three years old. He was unplaced in the Belle Meade Stakes at Nashville, 1¼ miles. He bolted and finished second but second place was given to Exploit on a claim of a foul, and won the Derby above. He has twenty-four additional three-year-old engagements. He is by Buckden, out of Mrs. Grigsby by Wagner, her dam Folly by Imp. Yorkshire, out of Imp. Fury by Imp. Priam, &c.

SUMMARY

Third Race—The Kentucky Derby, for three-year-olds, $100 entrance, half forfeit, $20 if declared May 1st, 1883; $40 if declared May 1st, 1884, with $1,500 added; of which $200 to second. 1½ miles. 51 subs, of whom 16 declared and 3 dead. Value $4,190.

Betting—Bob Miles $440, Audrain $400, Buchanan $400, Loftin $160, field $240.

ELEVENTH DERBY 1885

A more beautiful morning could not have been made for the opening day of the Louisville Jockey Club. Not a cloud was to be seen, and the genial rays of the sun made the day most charming. The Kentucky Derby grows in interest with each recurring year, and this was its eleventh renewal. There is more ante-post betting on it than on any race in this country, and the winner is generally awarded the highest honor as a three-year old.

The track was in splendid order, except the chute, which has not been galloped over and was deep and dusty. The grounds looked neat and clean with its holiday suit of whitewash, which was a pretty contrast with the emerald green of the grass on the inner field.

The attendance was immense, the largest ever seen on a race track in Kentucky save the Ten Broeck-Mollie McCarthy match. The inner field was full of all kinds of vehicles and conveyances, while the training track was packed full of people from the head of the homestretch down past the grand stand and well around the turn, nearly half a mile of people almost solidly packed. Here and there could be seen a number of heads on the turn peeping out under the rails, reminding one of a lot of frogs coming out to sun themselves. It was a glorious sight to see—the grand stand literally packed with people while the inner field and every available place, and the stables, tents and booths outside of the main course were alive with people, the hum and noise coming up from thousands of throats reminded one of a grand chorus from a distant orchestra.

The race of the year, the Kentucky Derby came, and after the ten were weighed in the questioning never ceased as to who would win until it was finally decided. We are perfectly satisfied in our own mind that Bersan would have won if Favor, his stable companion, had not crossed and interfered with him to such an extent at the vital part of the race—the homestretch. The best colt was second, and barring accidents he will demonstrate it before the year is over. He will make a grand race horse. We would not rob Joe Cotton of his laurels honestly won, still we believe Bersan is a better race horse over a distance of ground.

Keokuk cut out the running, Playfair second, Irish Pat third, followed by Clay Pate, Thistle, Bersan, Joe Cotton, Favor, Lord Coleridge and Ten Booker. Entering the main track at the three-quarter pole Keokuk led, with Favor second, Joe Cotton third, rest well bunched. Passing the stand Keokuk still led, Bersan second, Lord Coleridge third, the pace slow, Irish Pat fourth, followed in close order by Playfair, Favor, Joe Cotton, Thistle, Clay Pate and Ten Booker. Bersan showed in the lead at the quarter, Keokuk third, Irish Pat fourth, rest bunched. At the half Bersan still led, Favor second, Joe Cotton third, and it looked like a battle between the stables of Williams and Morris & Patton. Entering the stretch Joe Cotton showed in front on the outside with Favor next, and Bersan at the pole third, Thistle fourth. Just after fairly getting into straight running Favor swerved over on Bersan, cutting him off and making him lose several lengths. Bersan had to pull back, and less than two hundreds yards from home was two lengths behind Joe Cotton, gaining at every stride. Joe Cotton managed to beat him on the post by a short neck. Ten Booker, who came very fast at the finish, was a length off third, followed by Favor, Thistle, Keokuk, Clay Pate, Playfair, Irish Pat and Lord Coleridge. The first half 52, three-quarters 1:19, first mile 1:44, race 2:37½.

SUMMARY

Third Race—The Kentucky Derby, for three-year-olds; $100 entrance, h f; $20 if declared by May 1st, 1884; $40 if declared by May 1st, 1885; $1,500 added, of which $200 to second. 1½ miles. 69 entries. 4 void.

Betting—Joe Cotton $500, Bersan and Favor $215, Ten Booker $75, Irish Pat $40, Playfair and Thistle $35 each, Lord Coleridge $25, field $30.

TWELFTH DERBY 1886

While the weather was cloudy and hot and looked threatening, the rain held off during the day. The track while not so fast as we have seen it, was in capital condition, safe and good. The attendance was very large, fully ten thousand people were on the grounds. The populace availed themselves of free entrance to the inner field, which had a large number of people, on foot and in all kinds of vehicles. The inside or training track was lined with people from the timing stand to near the three-quarter pole. The Grand Stand and betting ring was crowded to overflowing, and the ladies were out in large numbers. For the twelfth Derby, ten started, Ben Ali was the favorite, Free Knight second choice and Blue Wing third. Ben Ali won it is true, but we doubt whether he was up to concert pitch, but we confess Blue Wing is a much better colt than we gave him credit of being, and think he ought to have won the race. He ran wide on the turn; his jockey let him swerve just at the critical point of the race, and was only beaten three parts of a length. Free Knight ran a good race—indeed it is the best field we have seen since Aristide’s year. There is hardly a starter in the race but what will pay his way and be a useful horse. This is the third time the race has been won by a son of Virgil—Vagrant, Hindoo and Ben Ali—and Vera Cruz would have won save an accident at the start. Seven of the starters were bred in Kentucky—Ben Ali, Blue Wing, Free Knight, Sir Joseph, Grimaldi, Harrodsburg and Masterpiece; and Lafitte and Jim Gray are by Kentucky owned stallions, and the sire and dam of Lijero were bred in Kentucky, showing the State still holds the highest place in the production of the horse. Take it all through it was the best race, so far as interest and contest are concerned, ever run for the Derby or any other race, and we doubt if such a field and such a contest will be witnessed again during the year. Every year seems to add interest to this great race. It will be seen by the time made that the pace was a hot one from start to finish, and few such races from the time standard have been run so early in the year with 118 lbs. up and by the way this is the first year the weights have been 118 lbs., and is the fastest run race.

The start was a beautiful one, the ten horses going away on even terms, Blue Wing in the lead, Grimaldi second, Masterpiece third, followed by Sir Joseph, Ben Ali, Free Knight, Jim Gray, Harrodsburg, Lijero, and Lafitte in order named. Masterpiece took the lead as they entered the main track, Grimaldi second, Blue Wing third, rest well up bunched. Passing the stand Masterpiece still led, Harrodsburg second, Jim Gray third, Free Knight fourth, rest in close order. There was no change at the quarter, but the pace was still hot. Nearing the half, Free Knight was a head in front of Harrodsburg second, Jim Gray a head behind him third, with Ben Ali, Blue Wing and Masterpiece close up and bunched. At the three-quarter pole, entering the homestretch, Free Knight was a half length in front of Ben Ali second, Blue Wing third. Now commenced the real struggle for the race. All three were driving, Ben Ali and Blue Wing were head and head at the furlong pole, Free Knight a half length behind. Blue Wing swerved to the outside and lost some ground, and Ben Ali gained a length or more when he entered the stretch. Fitzpatrick rode wide on the turn, carrying Blue Wing out, which enabled Ben Ali to take the rail. After a driving race home, Ben Ali won by a scant three parts of a length, Blue Wing second, two lengths in front of Free Knight third, followed by Lijero, Jim Gray, Grimaldi, Sir Joseph, Harrodsburg, Lafitte and Masterpiece in the order named. Time—half 50, three-quarters 1:16, mile 1.43, mile and a quarter 2:10, race 2:36½.

SUMMARY

Third Race—The Kentucky Derby, for three-year olds; $100 entrance, h f; or only $10 if declared on or before May 1, 1885 or $20 if declared on or before May 1, 1886; money to accompany declaration; with $1,500 added, of which $300 to second and $150 to third. 1½ miles. 107 entries 3 void by death of nominator, 5 declared May 1st, 1885 and 52 May 1st, 1886. Value $5,440.

Betting—Ben Ali $500, Free Knight $370, Blue Wing $260, Jim Gray $115; field $140.

THIRTEENTH DERBY 1887

The morning was cloudy and threatening, and it rained all around but fortune seems to favor the Louisville Jockey Club, and only a few drops of rain fell during the day. The attendance was very large, the Grand Stand, betting grounds and inner space were packed with people, so much so that navigation was almost impossible; the inner field was full of people and vehicles and the crowd lining the inner fence extended from the head of the stretch down past the Grand Stand and for an eighth of a mile around the first turn.

The Derby was a fairly good race, as the track was slower than many supposed. In our issue of last week we selected Banburg, Jacobin and Jim Gore as the three placed horses, and at the same time stated that the form shown by Montrose at Lexington was not his true form, but was unable to say what was the matter with the colt. We expressed the opinion that we thought Jim Gore would win the Derby if he did not break down in the race, and unfortunately his leg gave away at the half mile pole, so his jockey, Fitzpatrick, stated, and that he could not have lost the race except for the accident. Banburg could not extend himself in the race to-day; he neither had speed or bottom, from some cause, and did not begin to show the form he did at Lexington in the Phoenix Stakes. Montrose took the lead as the lot entered the main stretch, and was never afterwards headed. Taken as a lot the Derby colts this season were inferior to last year, save and except Jim Gore, who is a real grand young horse, who struggled gamely and finished second, after breaking down a half mile away from the finish.

The start was a beautiful one, Jacobin in the lead, Ban Yan second, Banburg third, followed by Jim Gore, Clarion, Montrose and Pendennis. Entering the stretch Montrose led a length, Ban Yan second, Banburg third, rest bunched. Passing the stand Montrose led a length, Ban Yan second, Banburg third, Jacobin, Jim Gore, Clarion and Pendennis following in close order. No change at the quarter, but at the half Banburg took second place, and they went around the turn pretty closely bunched, Montrose still leading a length. Entering the stretch Montrose still led; Jim Gore who was seen to falter at the half rallied and took second place as they entered the stretch, but was never able to get on even terms with Montrose who held his lead, and won by a length and a half, Jim Gore second a length in front of Jacobin third same in front of Banburg fourth, Clarion fifth, Ban Yan sixth, Pendennis beaten a hundred yards, seventh. First half mile 52, first mile 1:45½, race 2:39¼.

DESCRIPTION OF THE WINNER

Montrose is a bay colt, blaze face and several white feet, has neat head and neck, rather light body but clean legs, by Duke of Montrose, out of Patti by imp. Billet, her dam Dora by Pat Malloy, out of Etta, Jr. by Bill Alexander, her dam Etta by Star Davis, &c., &c.

SUMMARY

Third Race—The Kentucky Derby, for 3-year olds, foals of 1884, $100 entrance, h f $10 if declared on or before May 1st, 1886; $20 if declared on or before May 1st, 1887; money to accompany declarations; with $1,500 added; of which $300 to second and $150 to third. 1½ miles. 119 entries. 12 paid $10, 66 paid $20, 1 void. Value $5,920.

Betting—8 to 5 against Banburg, 2 to 1 Jim Gore, 4 to 1 Pendennis, 5 to 1 Jacobin, 6 to 1 Ban Yan, 10 to 1 each Montrose and Clarion.

FOURTEENTH DERBY 1888

A more raw, cold disagreeable day can hardly be imagined than the opening day of the Louisville Jockey Club. It was cloudy, and a cold, raw wind blew directly across the track from the North; and as they have had no rain for the past fortnight or more, the dust blew in blinding clouds. The track had been watered on the homestretch which helped matters very much. The track was slow, and deep in dust except on the homestretch. The attendance was very large, the people taking advantage of the free entrance to the inner field; the rails were packed, four or five deep, from the three-quarter pole at the head of the stretch to well around the first turn. The Grand Stand, Betting Ring and lawn in front of the Grand Stand was packed, making locomotion extremely difficult.

Only seven appeared for the fourteenth renewal of the Kentucky Derby, and the Melbourne Stables Gallifet and Alexandria were even against the field. The race is described elsewhere but a few comments are necessary here. Gallifet though the day was raw and cold frothed and fogged greatly between the hind legs and on his neck, showing him to be soft, and not keyed up to concert pitch. Still, notwithstanding his condition we think him the best colt and should have won. He made the pace hot, 51 for the first half mile, was ridden in the deepest and meanest part of the track. With a good jockey he should have won. The Chevalier made an unaccountable bad show and Macbeth made a wonderful improvement on his race at Lexington. He swerved badly at the head of the stretch and seemed like he wanted to go out, but won quite handily at the finish. On Macbeth’s running at Lexington we could not recommend him for a place and selected Gallifet, The Chevalier and White for the placed horses. Gallifet was second, and White third.

The Chevalier led off, Gallifet second, Autocrat third. Entering the main track Zeb Ward led, Alexandria second, White third, rest bunched. Passing the stand Alexandria led Gallifet a head, followed a length off by The Chevalier, White, Autocrat and Zeb Ward. Gallifet took the lead after passing the stand, and led Alexandria a length at the quarter, The Chevalier third. Coming to the half Gallifet led Macbeth two lengths, who was head and head with The Chevalier third, Autocrat fourth. They ran in this order round the lower turn, White moving up to fourth place entering the stretch. Half way down the homestretch Macbeth took the lead and won quite handily by a length, Gallifet second, three lengths in front of White third, Alexandria fourth, The Chevalier fifth, Autocrat sixth, Zeb Ward seventh. Time—quarter 26¼, half 51, three-quarters 1:18, mile 1.44½, mile and a quarter 2:11¼, race 2:38¼.

SUMMARY

For three-year olds, foals of 1886, $100 entrance, h f $10 if declared on or before May 1st, 1887; $20 if declared on or before May 1st, 1888; money to accompany declarations; with $2,500 added; of which $500 to second and $200 to third. 1½ miles. 95 noms.

Betting—Even money Melbourne Stable’s pair 3½ to 1 The Chevalier, 10 to 1 each White and Macbeth, 12 to 1 each Zeb Ward and Autocrat.

FIFTEENTH DERBY 1889

A more disagreeable day for racing could hardly been imagined. It was intensely hot, and the dust so thick you could almost cut it with a knife. The track was watered during the night, but with all the water it did not lay the dust, still it was a great improvement. The attendance was the largest ever known on the Louisville track except the Ten Broeck and Mollie McCarthy match. The crowd was so great that it was really uncomfortable and almost impossible to move about or get into the betting ring. The free entrance to the field attracted an immense crowd of people and vehicles, the home stretch being twenty or more people deep for its whole length. Notwithstanding the discomforts of the day, it was great racing, and it will be a long time before we shall see such another field of high class three-year olds. Just imagine over a deep dusty track, not fast, for four three-year-olds with 118 lbs., up to a run a mile and a half as good as 2:34½, and you can at once appreciate their high class.

It is our conviction that with a stout armed jockey up Proctor Knott would have won the Derby. There is no complaint against Barnes’s riding as he did the best he could under the circumstances. Proctor Knott is a tremendous big stout colt, heavy headed and no ninety pound boy can hold him or keep his head up. Before going a quarter of a mile he overpowered Barnes, nearly pulling him over his head, and before the race was half finished Barnes was exhausted pulling to keep his head up. With such a jockey as Murphy, McLaughlin, Hayward or Fitzpatrick up we do not believe he could have lost the race. His future racing will tend to prove our opinion. He made all the running as will be seen for a mile and a quarter and then swerved to the outside and lost enough ground to have made him win by two open lengths. We would not detract from the merits of Spokane, the winner, as he is a great race horse, but we think Proctor Knott the greatest youngster we have seen in years.

The eight went away on pretty even terms, Hindoocraft first, Bootmaker second, Spokane third, followed by Proctor Knott, Sportsman, Once Again, Cassius and Outbound. They had not gone fifty yards before Proctor Knott rushed to the front and led by three lengths as they entered the main track, which he increased to five as they passed the stand, Hindoocraft second, Sportsman third, closely followed by Spokane and Once Again. Proctor Knott held his lead past the quarter, but it was reduced three lengths at the half, Sportsman second, Hindoocraft third, rest well bunched. Coming round the lower turn Spokane took second place, and when they neared the three-quarter pole Barnes was unable to control Proctor Knott and hold his head up, bolted to the outside, and looked like he was going up the chute for a moment. This lost him some three or four lengths and before he could be straightened, Spokane came next to the rails and took the lead. Inside the sixteenth pole Proctor Knott came again, and after a driving race home in which Spokane swerved to the inner rail he managed to beat Proctor Knott on the post by a short throat latch, Once Again two lengths off third, he a head in front of Hindoocraft fourth, followed by Cassius, Sportsman, Outbound and Bootmaker, in the order named. Bootmaker broke down, pulling up quite lame. Time, first 24¾, half a mile 48½, three-quarters 1:14½, mile 1:41½, mile and a quarter 2:09¼, mile and a half 2:34½.

SUMMARY

The Kentucky Derby for three-year olds, foals of 1886; $100 entrance, half forfeit, $10 if declared on or before May 1, 1888, $20 if declared on or before May 1, 1889; money to accompany declarations; with $2,500 added, of which $300 to second and $150 to third. 1½ miles. 94 entries. Value $5,520.

Betting—10 to 1 Spokane and Hindoocraft, 3 to 1 Once Again and Bootmaker coupled, 1 to 3 Proctor Knott, 15 to 1 Cassius, 20 to 1 Outbound and Sportsman.

SIXTEENTH DERBY 1890

Rain fell heavily on Tuesday nearly the entire day, which continued throughout the night and nearly half the day Wednesday, May 14, which made the track a sea of mud and water. Notwithstanding the unfavorable weather and muddy condition of the track the attendance was extremely large, fully up to any preceding day. The Derby was the third race, for which a half dozen put in an appearance. Robespierre was the favorite, even against the field, but he was beaten by Riley and Bill Letcher.

Bill Letcher led off, Outlook second, Palisade third, other three bunched. No change at the three-quarters, but passing the stand Robespierre and Riley were head and head, Outlook third. Going round the turn Robespierre drew clear and led at the quarter with Outlook second, Riley third, Bill Letcher fourth. Before reaching the half Riley was in front, Robespierre second, Bill Letcher third, the race lay between the two. No change at the head of the stretch, Riley leading and running easy, Robespierre driving and Bill Letcher gaining. Riley won handily by a length and a half, Bill Letcher second and a length in front of Robespierre third, Palisade fourth, Prince Fonso, fifth, Outlook sixth. First mile 1:47, the race 2:45. Value to winner, $5,460.

SUMMARY

The Kentucky Derby for three-year olds, foals of 1887; $100 entrance, half forfeit, $10 if declared on or before May 1, 1889, $20 if declared on or before May 1, 1890; money to accompany declarations; with $2,500 added, of which $300 to second and $150 to third. 1½ miles. 115 noms.

Betting—Even Robespierre, 4 to 1 Riley, 4 to 1 Bill Letcher, 5 to 1 Prince Fonso, 10 to 1 Palisade, 20 to 1 Outlook.

SEVENTEENTH DERBY 1891

A cloudy and hazy morning, but still spring like day, lending the Louisville Jockey Club an aspect brighter than it has ever worn since its inauguration in 1875, combined with the great improvements made during the past winter and spring, there seems every hope of a pleasant, brilliant and successful meeting. We have had a remarkable season, rainy and wet during March, and when winter broke summer came upon us with a burst, there being as usual no intermediate season between winter and summer. The country is dry; and the track deep in dust, still the country wears a hue of green, the trees are in full leaf, and the pastures clothed with a carpet of emerald green. The crowd to witness the seventeenth renewal of the Kentucky Derby was the largest and most immense ever assembled on the course, except at the Ten Broeck and Mollie McCarthy race, and many thought the crowd larger. During the years of this race men have written lovingly of Louisville and its track, and sounded the praises of the great three-year old event. The crowd was so great that locomotion was almost impossible, and being a free day the inner field presented one mass of humanity from the head of the stretch nearly to the first quarter pole. Derby only brought four to the post. The race for the first mile was merely a big exercising gallop, the first mile in 2:01. They ran from the half mile pole home in 51¼ seconds, and Isaac Murphy had to ride Kingman hard to win by a length. This is the slowest time a Derby has ever been run in.

The Kentucky Derby for three-year olds, foals of 1888; $100 entrance, half forfeit, $10 if declared on or before May 1, 1890, $20 if declared on or before May 1, 1891; money to accompany declarations; with $2,500 added, of which $300 to second and $150 to third. 1½ miles. 83 noms. Value to winner $4,680.

Betting—2 to 5 Kingman, 3 to 1 Balgowan, 10 to 1 High Tariff, 6 to 1 Hart Wallace.

EIGHTEENTH DERBY 1892

The eighteenth Kentucky Derby was run in the cold. The weather did not check the crowd, and fully 10,000 people watched the race from the grand stand and free field and cheered Azra and Huron as they passed under the wire. It takes more than bad weather to dampen the enthusiasm over the Kentucky Derby, and only a positive assurance of poor racing will lessen the crowd. Signs and predictions of the weather prophets failed, and instead of the bright May-day weather promised by the bureau, the air was chilly and damp, and the sky hung with leaden colored clouds during the greater part of the morning and afternoon. In the early morning the sun shone, and though cool the indications were that the afternoon would be an ideal one for racing. Instead, however, a cold wind sprang up from the northwest and turf lovers saw their dreams of a beautiful day fade into typical fall weather. There was enough virtue in the wind, however, to dry off the track, which, with the exception of a little stickiness, was in a fair condition. The officials of the day were as follows: Judges—Col. M. Lewis Clark, R. A. Swigert and Washington Hessing. Timers—Norvin Harris, Van Kirkman and Lew Tarlton. Secretaries—Joseph Swigert and Charles Price. Starter—J. B. Ferguson. Clerk of the Scales—L. P. Ezekiel.

The third race was the Kentucky Derby, with three starters, Huron, Phil Dwyer and Azra. The betting was on the Corrigan pair, while Azra’s few friends put up their boodle freely. Three minutes before the start the same persons who were most enthusiastic at the finish were repeating over and again: “Oh! what a farce the race will be. Three horses only to gallop around like the hippodrome races of a circus.” The following is a description of the race:

From the first jump Corrigan’s intentions may be read, Huron is to set a pace that will kill Azra, and Phil Dwyer is to win. Swinging the big colt to the rail, Britton gives him his head. Racing like El Rio Rey or Proctor Knott, he draws away from Azra, whom Clayton holds well in hand, and length by length increases his lead until five lengths of daylight lie between the green and light-blue jackets, Phil Dwyer, held in reserve by Overton, a length and a half in the rear. Nearing the first quarter the wrap on Azra is slackened a little and, though all go wide at the turn to seek the dryest going, Clayton takes ground by passing nearest the rail. Down the stretch to the stand they come, and it begins to be apparent that a stubborn contest is in progress. Huron’s head is swinging, he is running easily, and as he swings along with his splendid action two lengths in the lead, a cheer breaks out. In every way he looks the winner, but at his heels comes one that will follow him with dogged courage till the last gasp. Under Clayton’s good guidance, Azra is holding his own, though seemingly between two fires, for if Huron does not run away from him, there behind him is Phil Dwyer running under a pull and ready to take up the fight.

As the wire is passed Huron again increases his lead, and rounding the turn is three lengths to the good, while Phil Dwyer moves up almost on even terms with Azra. So the quarter-pole is passed and the critical moment of the race arrives. It is time for Britton to “feel” Azra. The colored rider looks back, and then for the first time urges Huron a little. Will Azra hold his own or will he cry for quarter? Has he been able to stand the pace? If so, Phil Dwyer must come to the front and finish the work. Will he quit? How quickly that question is answered. The moment Britton makes that move on the back-stretch Clayton loosens his wrap and Azra responds. Will he hold his own? He does not come with a sudden burst of speed, but foot by foot he nears the leader, his steady rating telling at last. Phil Dwyer’s time has come. He makes no response to Overton’s call, and is then and there a beaten horse. The race is between Huron and Azra. It is no longer a question as to the latter’s lasting. The query is, “Will Huron quit?”

The last quarter is neared, Huron leads, but only by a little, that is steadily growing less. Azra is at his saddle, at his withers, at his head, gaining at every stride, slowly, but surely forging to the front. They are in the stretch and on even terms. Grandsons, both, of the great Leamington, the blood of the great race horse that flows in their veins has no taint of the coward, such as that of the colt that labors four lengths behind them. Azra is on the inside, and Britton has pinned him so close that Clayton can not use his whip. The boys knees must touch as the two colts race head and head. The crowd goes wild. Men yell the name, first of one and then the other. But for a moment the cries of “Azra, Azra wins,” drown the others. He is drawing away. Clayton is climbing up on his neck and working like a demon. At the eighth pole he is almost a neck in front of Huron. The race seems over, Huron, after setting the pace throughout, surely can not come again. But he does! Britton has never ceased work on him, and at one bound lifts him back once more head to head. But that is all. The two are straining every muscle, the last link of speed is out in each, but as the fiery nostrils of the racers see-saw past each other with the swaying of the outstretched necks only for an instant is first Azra’s and Huron’s nose ahead. Not a whip is raised. Hands are too precious. Britton is riding vigorously, but Clayton is outdoing him. Can not he lift his mount just an inch or two to the front? The wire is there above them. Ten thousand people are yelling and Clayton puts out his supreme effort. It succeeds! Azra has won. Right on the post he gains six inches, no more, and by that distance stands the winner of the Kentucky Derby of 1892. It is a grand race, and victor and loser alike are cheered to the echo by the excited crowd. The value of the stake was $4,230.

The Kentucky Derby for three-year olds, foals of 1889; $100 entrance, half forfeit; $10 if declared on or before May 1, 1891, $20 if declared on or before May 1, 1892; money to accompany declarations; with $2,500 added, of which $300 to second and $150 to third. 1½ miles. 3 starters. 68 subscribers.

Betting—3 to 2 Azra, 20 to 11 Corrigan’s pair.

NINETEENTH DERBY 1893

Never since the Spokane-Proctor Knott Derby, in 1889, was there such a crowd gathered at Churchill Downs as that to-day.

The weather and the far-famed Kentucky Derby were the cause of it, greatly augmented by the fact that the field was free. It is a time-honored and commendable custom of the Louisville Jockey Club to give a free field on Derby and Clark days, and the association lost nothing by it to-day, as every inch of space on the grand stand side of the track was filled, and no more could have been accommodated.

The weather was simply delightful, and this with a strong attraction on the programme is what is required to draw a large crowd to a race-track. It is no easy matter to estimate such a gathering with any degree of accuracy, but there must have been at least 25,000 people on the grounds. They began to arrive before 11 o’clock, and from that time until 3 o’clock in the afternoon the streets leading out to the track were lined with street-cars, vehicles, equestrians and pedestrians. They came in all sorts of ways, from the dusty and perspiring footman to the elegant and flashy tally-ho, drawn by four prancing horses. It reminded one of the Irishman’s witty paraphrase of an old couplet,

“Some ride in chaises,
And some walk, be-jases.”

Long before the hour for the first race the grand stand and surrounding grounds were a solid mass of restless but good-natured humanity, all on the qui vive for the sport so near at hand. Locomotion was the next thing to impossible, and those not content to remain in one place had a formidable undertaking in trying to get around. Over in the center-field a similar condition of affairs existed. For more than a quarter of a mile fronting the grand stand the inner rail was hugged by a heterogeneous mass of humanity, made up of men, women and children, white and blacks all bent upon getting the best position possible under the circumstances irrespective of the rights of others. Further back, a line of vehicles, every available inch occupied by a sightseer, extended nearly the entire distance of the back-stretch, so that only occasional glimpses of the horses could be caught by the occupants of the pressstand, upon whom those not present depended for an accurate description of the races.

And it might be appropriately asked, what was the attraction that drew all this concourse of people to the same spot? What was it that made them endure for five hours all the discomfitures that surrounded them? It was not for the purpose of speculating on the results, for not one-tenth of those who were there, bet, or attempted to bet, or had any desire to do so. It was that inborn love of sport, that can be found in the hearts of the majority of men. It is the greatest compliment that can be paid to a racing association for that kind of a gathering to attend its meetings. As a whole, it was not there to speculate but prompted by a feeling of admiration for deeds of prowess and with an earnest desire to see the best horse win.

This was the kind of an audience that witnessed the nineteenth renewal of the Kentucky Derby. The event itself might be regarded as somewhat of a disappointment, in the fact that the winner so far out-classed his field that he had too easy a thing of it. With Lookout eliminated, the contest between Plutus, Boundless and Buck McCann was a stubborn one, and not until very near the wire was the issue settled, as to who would get second place. There was no trouble about who would get first place; that was settled shortly after the flag fell. There were six starters in the Derby, namely: Cushing & Orth’s pair, Lookout and Boundless; Scroggan Bros.’ Buck McCann; Bashford Manor Stable’s Plutus; J. E. Pepper’s Mirage, and C. E. Railey’s Linger. Kunze rode Lookout; R. Williams was up on Boundless; A. Clayton on Plutus; Thorpe on Buck McCann; Isaac Murphy on Mirage, and Flynn on Linger.

Cushing & Orth’s pair was odds-on favorites and the bulk of the big speculators’ money went on the entry. There had been a great air of mystery about the preparation of Plutus for the Derby, and the talent appeared to be at a loss as to how to estimate him. His race showed that Trainer John Morris has been doing some good work with the colt and has a stake-horse in his stable. Plutus and Buck McCann were about even second choice, both to win and for place. Mirage, with Isaac Murphy up, found some followers, but principally “pikers,” for the place on which odds of 3 to 1 could be had. There was a long price about Linger’s chances with few takers. There was a general impression abroad that Railey’s colt could not take up the weight and go the distance, and all who reached such a conclusion had it down just about right. But neither Linger nor Mirage will ever be able to beat Lookout at any weight or distance when the great son of Troubadour is at himself. They don’t belong in his class. The others in the Derby are nearer his class, but it is my opinion that he will always hold them safe, under anything like equal circumstances. He won the Derby so easily that it places him clear out of the reach of anything but a high-class horse.

Coming on the track, all the horses paraded in front of the grand stand and were vociferously applauded. The enthusiasm which the two previous races had in no wise affected, broke out in uproarous demonstration. Some yelled for one and some for another just as fancy or interest suggested, but the keen eyed judge of a race-horse could see the winner only in the big, graceful chestnut, who apparently oblivious to the excitement of which he was partially the cause, galloped quietly to the post.

It was comparatively a small field but starter Pettingill had to line them up several times before sending them away in a bunch. In the break Lookout and Linger went out in the lead, heads apart, followed closely by Mirage, Buck McCann, Boundless and Plutus in the order named the latter getting a little the worst of the start. Lookout shook off Linger in a few strides, and at the quarter was an open length to the good, with Plutus and Linger second on even terms, Buck McCann fourth, Mirage fifth and Boundless last. Going under the wire for the first time, it was Lookout, by two lengths and running easy, Plutus second, a head in front of Linger, Boundless and Mirage about on even terms, with Buck McCann about a half length behind them. At the first quarter, past the wire, the order had changed little, except that Lookout had increased his lead and Buck McCann had moved up to fourth position. At the conclusion of the mile the order had not changed materially, but the scene shifted in the next quarter. Linger dropped out badly beaten and Mirage, on whom Murphy was working with all his might and main, began to go back to the trailer. In the meantime Lookout was romping down the stretch, five lengths ahead of Plutus, Boundless and Buck McCann, who were having a desperate fight of it. In the order as named last above they came under the wire.

SUMMARY

The Kentucky Derby, for three-year-old colts and fillies, foals of 1890; $100 entrance, half forfeit, $10 if declared on or before May 1, 1892, $20 if declared on or before May 1, 1893; money to accompany declarations; with $3,000 added, of which $400 to second and $150 to third, fourth to save stake. One and a half miles.

Won easily by five lengths in 2:39¼, same between second and third. The stake was worth $4,090 to the winner.

Betting—7 to 10 Cushing & Orth’s entry, 3 to 1 Plutus, 4 to 5 place.

TWENTIETH DERBY 1894

It was Derby Day at Churchill Downs this afternoon, and the enclosure was crowded as it had not been for a long time previous. It was an ideal racing day, the hard rain of the morning thoroughly laying the dust. The rain made the track just a bit slow but this was more than compensated in the absence of dust. The good people of the Falls City were hungry to see a race and they turned out in large numbers, irrespective of color, class or circumstances. A free field made it possible for those who were unable to pay the price of admission to see the racing at little or no cost at all. There was an immense crowd in the infield, and the fence from the head of the stretch to the clubhouse turn was lined with a dense mass of humanity, each moity of which was struggling to either gain or maintain his position.

The Derby of 1894 had not about it quite that glamour and fascination that has characterized several former contests for this event perhaps because there was no horse in it of particularly high-class, and of such individual prominence as to attract and absorb public attention for weeks prior to the race, which reaches the public thru the medium of the press. Horses are something like men in that some of them possess a kind of magnetism that draws around them a coterie of admirers, who become as much infatuated with him as does the most ardent admirers of a political leader. Such a horse was Proctor Knott, and never before nor since in the West, was as much written about and as much attention paid to a horse as was to him. The press teemed with articles about him from day to day, for weeks prior to the Derby of 1889, so that when the great day rolled around thousands of people went to the track impelled by an uncontrollable curiosity to see the horse that had been written so much about. Well, every one who went on that day, saw a race, the like of which they never saw before nor since. The idol was dethroned but even in defeat he was greater in the hearts of his admirers than was the winner.

But the Derby this afternoon presented none of the attractive features of that great event won by Spokane. The horses trained here and, of course, around whom most of the local interest would naturally attach had not shown any trials upon which to place much faith in their prowess, with the possible exception of Pearl Song. The others had been tried and found wanting, and, as a matter of course, the public could not make an idol of common clay. Along up the line from Memphis to this meeting came a horse that had run races at three other tracks with considerable success, and whose muscles had been hardened for a journey of a mile and a half by actual racing, which is admitted by all trainers to be a better conditioner than private work. This horse is Chant, and he won the Kentucky Derby this afternoon just as he pleased. There may have been horses in it that will be better than he later on, but there was nothing in it that was within ten pounds of him to-day. There was nothing in it that could make the son of Falsetto stretch his neck and think seriously that he was running for a stake or merely out for an exercise gallop. The time was exceedingly slow, and this was partially due to the soft condition of the track, but more particularly due to the fact that there was nothing in the race that could make Chant run any faster. Chant was a strong favorite in the betting, his odds being uniformly 1 to 2, but after viewing his easy victory one was impressed with the idea that those odds were really quite liberal. It was only a matter of loaning one’s money to the bookmakers for a little while, to be taken back shortly with fifty per cent interest. There were five starters in the Derby all with the same impost—122 pounds. Goodale was on Chant; R. Williams on Pearl Song; Overton on Sigurd; Ray on Al Boyer, and Irving on Tom Elmore. As remarked before Chant was a strong favorite, and Pearl Song was second choice. Not a few backed the latter to win, and as is always the case in every race, straggling bets went on each of the others to win, acting under the idea, it is supposed, that lightning is likely to strike anywhere. While Starter Pettingill had considerable trouble with each of his other fields, it was quite an easy matter to send off five well trained horses on a line, hence, with little delay, the flag flashed on the Kentucky Derby of 1894. Sigurd was the first to show in front, and he held that position for a quarter of a mile, but apparently on probation, for when he pleased Chant passed him and he pleased to do it coming down the stretch the first time. Passing under the wire at the completion of the first half mile, Chant was leading by two lengths, and to the practical eye of the turfmen it could be seen then that he had his field beat, as he was running very easily, with his mouth pulled open, while the others were struggling behind him in vain efforts to catch up. To make a long story short, it is only necessary to say that Chant led all the way and won simply without an effort. It was about as badly a strung out field as was ever seen. Pearl Song came in ten lengths behind Chant; Sigurd was about the same distance behind Pearl Song; Al Boyer was twenty lengths or more in the rear of Sigurd, and Tom Elmore was beaten off and his jockey pulled him up half way down the stretch.

May 15, 1894,—The Kentucky Derby, for three-year old colts and fillies (foals of 1891) $100 entrance, half forfeit: $10 if declared on or before May 1, 1893; $20 if declared on or before May 1, 1894; money to accompany declaration; with $2,500 added, of which $300 to second and $150 to third. One mile and a half. Closed with 55 nominations.

Time—2:41. Won by six lengths, fifteen lengths between second and third. Value to winner $4,020.

TWENTY-FIRST DERBY 1895

The Kentucky Derby this year went to a Lexington owned and trained horse. Halma, the black son of Hanover and Julia L., owned and trained by Byron McClelland and ridden by Perkins, won the classic event Monday, in the easiest kind of style, going the mile and a half journey in 2:37½. It was the slowest race of the day, and it looked like Halma could have gone the distance at least a second and a half faster had he been pushed to it.

The association was especially favored with good weather Monday, and a lovelier day for racing could hardly have been made to order.

The story of the Derby is quickly told as there were no sensational features about it. Only four horses started, Halma, Basso, Laureate and Curator. Halma was a 2 to 5 favorite, but even at this short price he was pretty heavily backed. Mr. Nick Finzer’s colt Laureate, was heavily played for the place at 3 to 5, especially by the Louisville contingent, who were patriotic and backed their home horse for the position at the finish that seemed possible for him to obtain. Basso was held for the place at about the same price as Laureate, and the Chicago owned horse was pretty heavily played for the place. The matter of starting the field of four was soon disposed of and the quartet went off well together. Curator took the lead and quickly separated himself from his companions, holding the lead for nearly half a mile, but only on sufference. Coming near the wire for the first time, Halma took the lead, and to make the story short, held it easily to the end. Basso trailed all the way until entering the stretch for the final home run when he came up and challenged Laureate who had been in second place since the end of the first half mile. Basso took second position half way down the stretch and thus they finished, Halma easily by three lengths, Basso second by a length and Laureate third by five lengths.

The Kentucky Derby, for three-year old colts and fillies (foals of 1892); $5 to accompany the nomination; $10 to be paid May 1, 1894; $20 to be paid May 1, 1895; $100 additional to start, with $2,500 added, of which $300 to second and $150 to third; fourth to save stake. One mile and a half.

TWENTY-SECOND DERBY 1896

The Kentucky Derby is over and Ben Brush wears the crown, but his victory was obtained only by the narrowest of margins, and while his neck was clothed with flowers after the race, his sides were sore and bleeding from the marks of the spur, and his giant muscles ached as they never did before. Simms gave him the garlands, Ben Eder caused the other things. Ah! it was a “hoss-race!” Such a field of three-year olds had not met since the old standard of Spokane-Proctor Knott Derby, in which Once Again, Bootmaker, Hindoocraft, Cassius, Sportsman and Outbound followed behind the fighting leaders. And in the finish of the race to-day there was the same desperate, hair-raising finish, which marked that most famous of Derbies. Ben Brush was all out. Not only that but he needed all of the skill and strength and vim of a jockey famous on two continents to help his quivering nostrils first under the wire. And withal he is the best horse in the race. Not that Ben Eder with jockeys changed might not and probably would have won, but it was a matter of condition. Ben Eder was fit to a hair. Made fit in the only way to secure perfect condition, i. e. in actual racing, and McGuigan, after three months of constant care and thought, brought him to the post as exquisitely adapted for this particular race as any modiste fitted a Worth gown to a Parisian belle. There is now no doubt that all of Ben Eder’s “prep” and races down the line were made with an eye single to this one race. And how artistically Bill McGuigan managed it. Always racing, yet taking on no penalty, and yet thanks to Lady Inez the only genuine “Umbrella” McGuigan still took down the money. Then came the time when Lady Inez would no longer do. The finishing touches must be given; the razor edge put on. This was done, and when Ben Eder cut a hair at Nashville his trainer knew he was ready and that in the Kentucky Derby Ben Eder would race the race of his life. And he did. He will never run a better one, perhaps, while Ben Brush will. This is the difference.

Ben Brush, on the other hand, was in his first race of the season, and while he was by no means much too “high” and out of condition, still he had a host of other engagements up the line, some of them far richer in money than the Kentucky Derby. Ten thousand seemed to await him at Oakley, $12,000 at Latonia and $20,000 at St. Louis and Mr. Dwyer is not a sentimental man. His trainer could not afford to have Ben Brush too fine, and when the struggle came with Ben Eder the Bramble colt had only his class in his favor, and this was supplemented by Simms.

It is true there were many spectators who honestly believe that Ben Eder won, but the obstruction offered by the judges’ box makes it impossible for anybody but the judges or those in the timers’ stand to tell, and there seems no doubt, from the statements of those in these positions, that Simms (as a great jockey will) saved just one more effort in Ben Brush and using it in the last desperate leap, shot the hair on his nose in front of his shorter whiskered opponent.

Then too, there must be considered in estimating a popular verdict the natural and noble disposition to cheer the under dog when he gains an advantage and the sportsmanlike instinct to see an overwhelming favorite beaten.

First Mate ran like the flashy cur that he showed himself to be in all of his races. He will likely do in shorter contests or in which he can overwhelm his opponents by a bust of his speed, but nature obviously designed him for the role of a gentleman’s saddle horse, in which he can show high head and flaming tail in harmless curvetting, which will not be taken as a challenge to battle—at which his soul sickens.

The surprise was in the awful performance of Ulysses. Those who had seen the colt work did not like his going, but in the name of wonder what was “Brown Dick” thinking of to throw away that hundred starting money on a dog which may not win it back in his whole year’s campaign. Surely a trainer like “Dick” could not have been so deceived. I am of the opinion that irresistible Secretary Price buncoed “Dick” into starting a colt who had no more pretentions to being a Derby horse than honest “Dick” has of being a dude.

Semper Ego somewhat redeemed himself for his poor showing at Lexington, and may be dangerous to some of the cracks yet, and The Dragon ran his usual good, honest race, doing the best that is in him. Parson and The Winner had no business in the Derby and nobody thought they had, but probably only started as a compliment to a very popular track management.

With the aid of the form sheet below the story of the race is soon told. The Dill starting machine, which resembles that of Curly Brown and is the work of a Louisville man was used in all the races except the Derby, but in the big race Col. Chinn used the old flag flat-footed and unaided. There were several break-a-ways in all of which Ben Brush was prominent, and which were principally caused by First Mate’s fiery desire to run. Incidently, it was comical to see what a difference was presented by this degenerate son of Shipmate when he reached the same spot again after going once around the yellow circle. Then he wanted to lay right down and be put to bed. He never cared if he never saw another horserace as long as he lived and his craven heart called loudly for action by the humane society forbidding the use of spurs.

They were finally off with Ben Eder in the lead, but First Mate shot to the front at once and nearly pulling Thorpe’s arms from their sockets set a merry clip past the stand, down the back stretch and around to the next turn. Ben Brush had not been lagging, but with Simms almost urging the sluggish colt had been laying up in fourth position. At the turn from the back stretch Simms leaned far over his mount’s neck and urged him to the front. He soon overhauled First Mate, who had not thought the race would be so long, and turned in for home with a good lead and the race apparently already won. But the white face of Ben Eder had followed him through like a ghost and was coming on the outside like a flash of light. Running free and strong this true son of Fonso showed the heritage of a Derby winning sire. The family prestige must be maintained and he bid fair to do it. For one fleeting instant the white face showed before the red. But Ben Brush, too, came from an unconquered race and the blood of Bramble and old Bonnie Scotland surged through his veins as responding to the touch of steel his extended nose was thrust again an inch in front. Then Tabor made the mistake of his life. His horse was running true and comparatively fresh. The spurt of Ben Brush was only a spasmodic effort. He would have come back before the wire was reached. But Tabor reached for his whip and Ben Eder losing his jockey’s aid faltered a trifle. It was now a battle of jockeys. Both urged their mounts with whip and spur, but Tabor was riding all over his horse while Simms lifted his mount at every stride. On they came nose and nose until with an expiring effort Simms struck the wire first. It was probably the only point in the last fifty yards at which a difference could be detected between the two horses.

The crowd was such as only a great race can bring out and then only in Kentucky. The railroads and steamboats from all directions poured thousands of people into the city and vehicles of every description from carriages to spring wagons kept up a steady procession out the driveways to the track, while an endless chain of street cars discharged their human freight at the jockey club gates. Over ten thousand people are officially reported to have paid admission, while thousands of ladies and complimented visitors doubtless brought the attendance up to the 15,000 mark. The stands and tall steps were packed and the crowd stood thick all along the broad space between the track and stand and extended down to the fence beyond the betting shed. A feature was the social prominence given the occasion and reminded one of the old times when Col. Clark set the fashion in Louisville and led the way on his tally-ho to the races.

The Courier-Journal gives the following statements from the judges:

“It was a great race—one of the greatest I ever saw. We can not but regret, however, that Mr. McGuigan did not have a jockey who could do his colt justice. With an exchange of riders Ben Brush would certainly have been beaten to-day. He is a race horse of the highest class, however, and I think this race will do him much good. There was no doubt in the world about the finish. Simms simply lifted Brush a foot or so in front at the last jump.”

For three-year-olds (foals of 1893), $5 to accompany the nomination; $15 to be paid May 1, 1895; $30 to be paid May 1, 1896; $100 additional to start. The Club to guarantee the value of the stakes to be $6,000, of which $700 to second and $300 to third. Colts to carry 122 pounds; geldings (at time of starting) 119 pounds; fillies 117 pounds. Those not having won a race for three-year-olds (without respect to sex) of the value of $1,500 allowed 5 pounds; maidens, 10 pounds. One mile and a quarter. 171 nominations.

Time at post 20 minutes; start good; won in a fierce drive. M. F. Dwyer’s b c Ben Brush, by Bramble—Roseville. Hot Springs Stable’s b c Ben Eder, by Fonso—Workmate. Fractional Time—:25, :49½, 1:15½, 1:42, 2:07¾

TWENTY-THIRD DERBY 1897

The twenty-third Kentucky Derby has been won and Typhoon II. wears the laurel wreath. It was a splendid race and the winner earned his victory fairly and honestly, leading from start to finish, winning a race that, for the track was extraordinarily fast, with the pick of three-year olds of the West behind him. Ornament was second, Dr. Catlett was third, Dr. Shepard fourth, Goshen fifth, and Ben Brown, the pride of Newport, last.

To Typhoon must be fairly conceded the race on its merits. He won squarely, fairly and honestly the prize, but it must also be as fairly conceded that he had to divide the honors. Probably two-thirds of the turfmen who saw the race still believe that Ornament is the better colt, and with equal luck, would have won, and while Typhoon showed great speed and endurance, Ornament added to this by as thrilling a display of gameness as was ever witnessed on a race course. With the worst of the going he raced from the whip like the true thoroughbred that he is, and in the last quarter, which is the crucial test, cut down Typhoon’s two lengths of daylight to a scant neck. Great colt as he is, it was a lucky win for Typhoon, and probably even his owner would not care to have him measure strides again with his so recently defeated opponent.

Withal Typhoon is by no means the faint-hearted sprinter that his early races indicated; he shows a strong infusion of the good old stout Glenelg blood, and if Ornament can beat him he cannot give him much and do it.

The race was a beautiful one, and the following description, written by Mr. E. L. Aroni, turf editor of the Louisville Courier-Journal, could scarcely be excelled in accuracy as well as graphic power.

“It lacks eight minutes of four o’clock when the six colts line up. Ornament begins to dance a little, and the jockeying of the boys on the other starters causes a wait. Typhoon does not relish the delay, and prances back of the field. In a few minutes they move up and break, but Typhoon whirls around and the flag does not fall. A minute later, when they have been at the post only six minutes, they break once again. This time they are caught in line with less than half a length between first and last. Down go the red and yellow squares. There is a roar from the crowded grand stand, and the twenty-third Kentucky Derby is begun.

“What all careful watchers of the turf expected comes to pass. Typhoon sweeps to the front, with the others after him. Garner with admirable judgment swings the big chestnut toward the dry middle of the track as they round into the stretch. Goshen and Ben Brown are lapped on him, lying toward the rail, but on good going. Dr. Shepard is still near the inside, while behind come Ornament and Dr. Catlett, the slowest to get in motion. “Teen” Williams starts to work through the bunch with Dr. Catlett, choosing the faster part of the track. Clayton, on the other hand, carries Ornament toward the rail. He saves ground, bearing out on the others as strongly as possible to get good going, but thereby using energy that his mount will need later in the race.

“Rating towards the stand Typhoon’s splendid burst of speed is in evidence. He comes like a wild horse opening a gap of three daylight lengths—a yellow streak, like that other one that came flying along the outer rail across the track eight years ago, when Proctor Knott raced home just one jump behind Spokane. Like Proctor Knott in many ways this same Typhoon—in color, action and the unconquerable desire to lead his field.

“Passing the stand Ornament is the nearest to him. Dr. Shepard is at the favorite’s side with Ben Brown on even terms with him. Dr. Catlett is close up and running strongly, though showing no great speed, while Goshen even this early is in trouble.

“Scarcely a change is to be noted as they round the turn and near the finish of the first half-mile of their journey. Dr. Shepard is hanging on better than was expected and Dr. Catlett is striving gamely to lie with the flying leaders. But they are out of it clearly barring falls and sudden deaths. As for Ben Brown and Goshen they are simply striking examples of the difference between stake and plater class regardless of the time test. They are lost in the dim distance before the end of the first half-mile.

“The two Doctors are good colts, and game colts, but from the time the field straightened into the backstretch, they too may be dismissed from comment. They strive hard, but that chestnut demon in front is breaking their hearts, and their utmost efforts do not save them from falling foot by foot farther back from any chance in the final struggle for the prize.

“It is a duel. To the uninitiated Typhoon seems to be merely rating in front with ample in reserve. To those who know the colt it is soul-stirring to see that other little chestnut colt buckling to his work, holding that lead down to three lengths and refusing to be outfooted by a splendid sprinter.

“Around the far turn Clayton throws the whip into Ornament’s side, and he runs out from under it marvelously. A full length is closed, but Clayton settles down to hand-riding again and no more of the gap is closed. Again he does this as the finish of the first mile is passed. Again he changes his tactics. And still Typhoon races in front.

“Garner is proving himself a rider of fine quality. He is coaxing Typhoon. He is handling a colt with hand-riding, and it may be stated right here that no prettier bit of that same sort of riding has been seen on the Louisville track since the best days of Isaac Murphy, with the one exception of Simms’ finish on Ben Brush.

“Garner looks neither to right nor left. He has the race if he can hold. He swings Typhoon wide into the homestretch, landing him in the best and dryest path. Ornament must catch that colt if there is hope for him to win. He must get to Typhoon’s throat-latch and ask him the question of courage. Clayton takes a chance. He hugs the rail and saves at least a length. Then, wisely, he bears out toward the hard going. Ornament is closing on Typhoon.

“Clayton goes to the whip at the eighth pole and again Ornament comes forward from under punishment. He is nearing Typhoon. What is that boy Garner going to do? Every ounce in Typhoon is out! If Garner has not a wonderfully cool head he will drop the rein and lift the whip. He does not do it. He looks straight ahead. He is climbing forward on the leader’s withers coaxing him on, coaxing him always on. Typhoon is all out, but Ornament, too is staggering a length back and the wire is overhead.

“Ornament is gaining, gaining at every jump, running from the whip, ready to go on until he drops. But Typhoon, with that same steam-engine action with which he gained his lead, is holding it. The wire is reached. Garner is still climbing and coaxing, Ornament is still fighting a neck back, and Typhoon II., is winner of the Kentucky Derby of 1897.”

For three-year-olds (foals of 1894); $5 to accompany the nomination; $15 to be paid May 1, 1896; $30 to be paid March 1, 1897; $100 additional to start. The club to guarantee the value of the stakes to be $6,000, of which $700 to second and $300 to third. Colts to carry 122 pounds; geldings (at time of starting), 119 pounds; fillies, 117 pounds. Those not having won a three-year-old race of the value of $1,500, allowed five pounds; maidens ten pounds. One mile and a quarter. Closed with 159 nominations. One mile and a quarter.

Start fair; won with first 2 driving hard. Time—2:12½.

J. C. Cahn’s ch c Typhoon II, by imp. Top Gallant-Dolly Varden.

TWENTY-FOURTH DERBY 1898

Kentucky is happy. The Kentucky Derby on Wednesday last was won by a Kentucky horse, bred, owned and trained, while Memphis and the Southern talent are clothed in sackcloth and ashes. The gallant Plaudit lowered the colors of the hitherto invincible Lieber Karl.

The day of the great event opened gloomy and showery, and the weather, therefore, reduced the crowd which would have otherwise been perhaps the greatest in the history of this famous race. Before the races began, however, the rain ceased and a brilliant assembly saw the 24th Kentucky Derby, and even in numbers the crowd suffered little in comparison with previous Derby Days, from ten to fifteen thousand people being present. The track had been deep in dust, and the light showers of the morning made the track a little slow and soggy, but by no means sloppy or muddy.

Col. M. Lewis Clark was presiding judge and Secretary Price his associate.

Thirteen bookmakers were in line and there was business for twenty.

Lieber Karl’s Memphis performances had made him the hottest tip that in recent years has started for the Derby. Although all of the trainers at Louisville had been confident that Plaudit would win the Derby, as shown in the reports of the Louisville correspondent of The Record, the Memphis tip was brought up so hot and strong by the Southern delegation, that, with few exceptions, Plaudit’s sturdiest friends succumbed and sadly concluded that after all the Memphis Hindoo would beat their pet. The most notable exceptions were Dr. J. D. Neet, who bred Plaudit and who was there to pull for the colt; “Brown Dick,” who trained him as a two-year-old, and Willie Simms, who was to ride him. Albert Simons, his trainer, felt the responsibility too keenly to commit himself to an expression of opinion and John E. Madden, the owner, had gone to New York two days before with Plaudit’s half brother Glenheim, of which he is said to have a higher opinion of even than Plaudit. Major Thomas, who owned Himyar when Plaudit was sired, did not come down from his Lexington home to see the great son of his great sire perform.

The bookies had nearly all come from Memphis, and were thoroughly imbued with the belief that no horse on earth could beat Lieber Karl, and that every dollar they bet against him was thrown away. Hence they tentatively put up 9 to 20 Lieber Karl and 2 to 1 Plaudit. This was soon changed to 7 to 20 Lieber Karl and 2½ to 1 and 3 to 1 Plaudit, and 2 to 1 the field against Karl. As the other two starters—Isabey and Han d’Or—were considered to have no earthly show for first money the bulk of the money was forced on Plaudit by the prohibitive price on Karl, and the bookies were probably losers by the race, although Mr. Schorr was said to have bet heavily on his colt.

Karl is an impressive looking fellow, with a high-headed, dashing way of going, and duly impressed the spectators as he worked by the stand. He is a handsome horse, much resembling in appearance and gait Typhoon II and First Mate. Plaudit, on the other hand, though more blood-like, is the least imposing looking of all Cinderella’s great sons and is withal a sluggish racer. He has, however, a clean, low frictionless stride far preferable to the high sweeping action of his rival, and his clean-cut thoroughbred lines and splendid chest indicated that he had both gameness and stamina.

There was little delay at the post, and when the flag fell Lieber Karl at once shot to the front, and came by the stand like a wild horse, with Burns pulling with might and main and keeping the rank colt well within himself. Plaudit was on the outside and running last, but easily, and the others right on the flying Karl’s heels. Simms sent Plaudit forward, and when the back stretch was reached his red jacket flashed in front of Isabey and Han d’Or, who were never noticed again in the race. Lieber Karl was still running like a locomotive, but Simms set sail for him and before the middle of the back stretch was reached had his head at the leader’s flanks and held his place, though he seemed to be extended, while Karl was apparently well in hand. As they struck the next turn Plaudit made a move to go up but Burns let out a link and Karl shot away. Simms began to ride, however, and the sluggish Plaudit, as if waiting to be called on, held his own at Lieber Karl’s tail. Straightened into the run home Simms drew his whip and at the first touch of the lash Plaudit shot forward and slowly drew up to his rival’s head, and at the last eighth pole they were on even terms. Karl for the first time this season had been collared. Not till then did Burns begin to urge his mount, and soon the catgut was raising welts upon Karl’s heaving sides, while Simms was vigorously plying the lash to Plaudit. It was a desperate duel for a few strides, and then Plaudit gamely responding drew away and the race was over. Lieber Karl was all out, and while Simms rode the sluggish Plaudit to the end, he no longer needed the lash and finished with something to spare by a full length.

When the winner trotted back to the stand, the heartiest ovation tendered a Derby winner in recent years was given him. The crowd surged through the gates and over the fence and it was necessary to call a policeman to keep the enthusiastic crowd from the horse’s heels. A wreath of red roses was placed about the victor’s neck, and as he was led before the stand the crowd—ladies and all—arose and cheered the hero to the echo.

Kentucky Derby; for three-year-olds; guaranteed value $6,000. 1 mile and a quarter.