Derby Darling Hot Rod Charlie
The Sport of Kings crowned a new prince on Saturday when 12–1 Medina Spirit was the first to hit the wire at the 147th running of the Kentucky Derby. The win gave trainer Bob Baffert an unprecedented seventh trip to the winner’s circle at Churchill Downs.
“I’m the luckiest guy in the world,” Baffert shared with NBC. “I’m so spoiled bringing these heavy-duty horses in here, and this little horse has a big heart.”
Under picture-perfect blue skies, the track was ripe for a fast run. Essential Quality, the odds-on favorite coming into the race, was viewed as a vulnerable front runner. One of three undefeated horses to make the cut, questions still lingered about his ability to hold off speedy contenders.
In the end, this premonition became a reality. Middle gates 7, 8, and 9 produced the Derby’s win-place-show finishers, with Mandaloun (26/1) and Hot Rod Charlie (5/1) finishing second and third respectively.
While serious gamblers wrung their hands over a tricky wager sheet and a stunning upset, the casual fan remained smitten with the darling of this year’s Derby — Road Runner and Boat Racing LLC’s Hot Rod Charlie.
As the horses paraded to the starting gate, it was Hot Rod who sparked the loudest cheer from the crowd. A fan favorite, he came into the Derby with the second-most qualifying…
