Also, if you are going to be in attendance make sure to stop by and get a t-shirt and take a famous Strait Pinkie picture with the gang. And if you’re a yump stay longer!

Go here for more information about our Carrera De Caballos get together at the Derby!

CarlH

Win: Union Rags
Place: I’ll Have Another
Show: Bodemeister

Could never be a Jockey: Verne Troyer, he could never reach the stirrups.

Read More from CarlH HERE and if you think you are yumpy enough contact him via EMAIL.

Nick Ev

Win: Union Rags
Place: Creative Cause
Show: I’ ll Have Another

Could never be a jockey: First off, Carl H is a damn idiot. Verne Troyer would be like having no jockey at all. How is that not an advantage. It’s kind of like plopping a 1,000 pound lardo in front of a hockey net and begging the opposition to score. You dumb boy.

Kate Upton could never be a jockey. Think about it. How would the other jockeys/horses pay attention? Huh?

I know that’s a cow and not a horse. Who cares? Still need more clarification. Watch this and tell me you could ride a horse to the finish line while this is going down.

See more from NickEv HERE and listen to him on Elizabethtown’s 101.5 ESPN Radio every Tuesday and Friday at 5:15 pm and on The Sunday Morning Hangover every Sunday morning from 10-12 on ESPN 680 AM and espnlouisville.com.

Cory Collins

Win: Union Rags (Show the 1% who’s boss!)
Place: Went the Day Well
Show: I’ll Have Another

Could never be a jockey: Sarah Jessica Parker – Sarah and the horse would wonder who is supposed to ride who.

Go Here to see more from Cory

George

Win: Dullahan
Place: Creative Cause
Show: Gemologist

Could never be a jockey: Dick Clark because he’s….oh wait, too soon?

To Read more from George go HERE . He knows stuff and things, but mostly stuff!

And Our Expert on The Inside

Andy

Win: Dullahan
Place: Union Rags
Show: Hansen

Could never be a jockey: Rosie O’Donnell. Obvious reasons with weight but her loud mouth and an overall blow hard attitude would spook the horses. Horses are very skittish animals.

Andy loves bourbon so leave us a comment on who you think will win and your bourbon of choice.

BODEMEISTER, the Arkansas Derby winner and 4-1 morning line favorite for the Kentucky Derby, will break from post position 6 in Saturday’s fabled classic at Churchill Downs.

Carl H’s 138th Kentucky Derby Predicted Finish

20. OPTIMIZER – PP:2 – Optimize your winnings on Saturday by NOT betting on OPTIMIZER. ODDS: 50-1

19. TRINNIBERG – PP:9 – After finishing an unimpressive 7th in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile, TRINNIBERG has won his last two races (both Grade III’s). Time to be unimpressive again. ODDS: 50-1

18. DADDY LONG LEGS – PP:1 – On the rail is NOT a desirable place to be when the gates fly open and you hear “AND THEY’RE OFF!” ODDS: 30-1

17. ALPHA – PP:11 – ALPHA will finish closer to the Omega. ODDS: 15-1

16. PROSPECTIVE – PP:12 – He finished dead last in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile, won the Grade II Tampa Bay Derby and then finished 6th in the Grade I Toyota Blue Grass at Keeneland on April 14th. Last year jockey Luis Contreras was the leading rider at Woodbine and set a record for purse earnings with over $11 million as well as winning a record tying 6 races on one day. ODDS: 30-1

15. LIAISON – PP:20 – This beast’s jockey, Martin Garcia is a descendant of Mexico and was victorious in the 2011 Kentucky Oaks aboard PLUM PRETTY. On Cinco de Mayo, he will be trying to get back to the Winner’s Circle, this time on a slightly bigger stage. ODDS: 50-1

14. SABERCAT – PP:18 – SABERCAT’s jockey Corey Nakatani will be riding in his 16th Kentucky Derby. His highest finish was last year’s runner-up ride aboard NEHRO. Nakatani will be trying to finish one spot higher this year, but will fall well short. ODDS: 30-1

13. ROUSING SERMON – PP:7 – Unfortunately for trainer Jerry Hollendorfer, jockey Jose Lezcano and whomever puts some green down on ROUSING SERMON, it won’t be rousing enough. ODDS: 50-1

12. DONE TALKING – PP:17 – Won the Grade III Illinois Derby, and if I understand pedigree properly, he is the grandson of 1990 Kentucky Derby winner, UNBRIDLED. ODDS: 50-1

11. EL PADRINO – PP:16 – EL PADRINO in espanol means ‘The Godfather’. He finished fourth in the Florida Derby just behind UNION RAGS. He’ll finish a bit farther behind this time. ODDS: 20-1

10. TAKE CHARGE INDY – PP:3 – I don’t like Indy, Indy don’t like me. I’m wanted there for roaming the downtown area with some of the city’s horses… However, I’m giving TAKE CHARGE INDY a Top 10 finish here for one reason and one reason only: Calvin Borel. ODDS: 15-1

9. DADDY NOSE BEST – PP:10 – Will improve upon his starting position by a nose. This will be jockey Garret Gomez’s 10th appearance in the Kentucky Derby with his best finish coming in 2009 on PIONEEROFTHE NILE, who ran second. ODDS: 15-1

8. HANSEN – PP:14 – Named after his owner Dr. Kendall Hansen, this majestic beast won the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile back in November over UNION RAGS. His rider Ramon Dominguez is the two-time defending Eclipse Award winner for Outstanding Jockey. ODDS: 10-1

7. WENT THE DAY WELL – PP:13 – Trained by H. Graham Motion (Derby 137 winner ANIMAL KINGDOM) WENT THE DAY WELL is also ridden by jockey John Velasquez (Derby 137 winner). Velasquez will be trying to match Calvin Borel’s back-to-backs in Derby 135 and 136 (MINE THAT BIRD and SUPER SAVER). His sire, PROUD CITIZEN, was runner-up in the 2002 Kentucky Derby. ODDS: 20-1

6. GEMOLOGIST – PP:15 – Never count out Todd Pletcher who thus far has his only Derby win in 2010 with SUPER SAVER. GEMOLOGIST won at Churchill back in November in the Kentucky Jockey Club and also won his last time out, on April 7th in the Resorts World Casino New York City Wood Memorial. ODDS: 6-1

5. DULLAHAN – PP:5 – His only two wins in the past five races have been at Keeneland and finished fourth in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile right behind CREATIVE CAUSE, where he’ll end up again. He has an experienced jockey in Kent Desormeaux who is a three-time winner of The Kentucky Derby (1998, 2000 and 2008). ODDS: 8-1

4. CREATIVE CAUSE – PP:8 – Hasn’t finished out of the money in last seven races dating back to August, 2011. Finished third in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile just behind UNION RAGS and most recently was runner-up in the Santa Anita Derby, won by I’LL HAVE ANOTHER. ODDS: 12-1

3. BODEMEISTER – PP:6 – Putting him in the money based on those around him. Trainer Bob Baffert has won three Kentucky Derbys (1997, 1998 and 2002) and a record-tying five Preakness Stakes. He has also won two of the three legs of the Triple Crown four times. BODEMEISTER will be ridden by Mike Smith, who was aboard GIACOMO to win the 2005 Kentucky Derby. As far as the actual horse’s accomplishments? On April 14th he won the Arkansas Derby at Oaklawn Park. ODDS: 4-1

2. I’LL HAVE ANOTHER – PP:19 – Has won both of his 2012 races so far, the Robert B. Lewis in February and the Santa Anita Derby on April 7th. Also the favorite for most uttered phrase in the infield and out on Derby day. ODDS: 12-1

1. UNION RAGS – PP:4 – Third on the Graded Stakes Earnings List with just over $1.1 million in winnings and ridden by Julian Leparoux, UNION RAGS opened as the favorite. He finished 2nd at the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile back in November at Churchill, won the Fountain of Youth in February and finished third in the Florida Derby on March 31st. Next up is winning the Kentucky Derby… ODDS: 9-2

Derby week in Louisville, Kentucky is greatly about the expensive and eloquent equines. It’s also about the rich history of Louisville; how Churchill is the center piece of it all. But above all it’s about what Derby week means in the heart of the human being.

In route to Churchill this morning I ask myself – “What is Derby Week to the people I know?” The “Central Avenuers”, the young urban kids in the “West End”; what’s the meaning of Derby Week to the Valley Station Mom in the kitchen; or to the Pleasure Ridge Park “Pops” who’s working on his favorite garage project? To many, Derby Week is about friends and family. For a many of others, Derby Week spans the spectrum as I found while sifting through its special meaning from many different viewpoints.

Sonny Brown, resident of PRP and undoubtedly a horse racing fanatic “ever since he could remember” had this to say about what Derby Week meant to him. He asserted that, “Derby [week] is all about people going out and having a good time. It’s not about black or white or anything else (with a genuine grin on his face). It’s about the ponies, man! It’s a chance for Louisville and the World to take their minds off of everyday life, and focus on the horses…if only for two minutes!”

Larry Hill, a Valley Station dweller for over 50 years had this to say about what Derby Week meant to him. “Look son, I used to be a trainer with them horses and there is nothing more beautiful than to see a horse give you his all! You just can’t find a more elegant animal: smart, strong and just downright powerful! Whether you are training him or riding on top of him; that horse is in control at all times.” Jokingly he ended with, “Since you’ll be down at the track doing all this fancy reporting. Can you do me a favor?” Respectfully I answered, “Yes; what you need Larry?” Not able to hold back his laughs he said, “Get directly behind the horse, slap his ass and pull his tail for me – WILL YA?!” We both got a good laugh, shook hands and I was on my way!

Upon arrival to my family’s house in the “West End” of Louisville before I hit the track; I ask my little cousin, Quantae Bishop who is all of 20 years old – “Hey lil’ cousin? What does Derby Week mean to you?” You wouldn’t believe how deep he got on this subject. I’m going to paraphrase his response because his insight was so deep I did not have time write it all. To make a long story short he said, with great insight and a straight face that Derby [Week] to him was all about – “THE PARTIES AND THE INFIELD!” exclaiming zealously! Shaking my head, I left. Sarcastically thanking him for his profound thoughts on what Derby Week meant to him (lol).

After visiting my jokester of a cousin I was finally at Churchill, ready to start my day of media coverage at the Downs.

A woman by the name of “Bobby Joe” stood firm behind the counter of the comp. fountain drink stand; designated specifically for the Joe Hirsch Media room public relations associates, which is under the command of the great Mr. Darren Rogers. I made my drink. “Bobby Joe” and I sparked a conversation that ended up being the greatest story with the greatest meaning of what Derby Week really means. As she held back tears, “Bobby Joe” told a story that unreservedly defines the real meaning of Derby Week. As her eyes welled up – “Bobby Joe’s” story began. “I was looking out as the horses were about to go through the tunnels. And there was a man standing there with scruffy shorts; raggedy shirt and dirty hair. And next to him was a [rich] woman with a fuchsia dress on; a hat this big [stretching her arms out to relay the enormity and also relating how the size of the woman’s hat denoted her wealth]. She had on heels and dressed to the nines! As the horses start to come up the tunnel the woman tip-toes to see the horses but, she couldn’t. The gruffly looking man seeing the rich woman having trouble; he hands her his beer cooler; helps her onto it and she thanks him for his kind-hearted act. And I thought to myself…from one end of the spectrum to the other, [at that point] it was all about the horses and everybody coming together for a common good. COLD CHILLS INSTANTLY RAN THROUGH MY BODY!”

In closing, I’ve learned on powerful lesson today. Regardless of what Derby Week means to you, or any other. The real meaning of Derby Week is the celebration of the animal kingdom bringing harmony to the human race.

FOR THE PONIES SAKE – READ THE PINKIE!

In honor of the tradition of HORSERACE! and in celebration of the Battle of Puebla, the Pinkie squad will be partying in some sweet Carrera de Caballos 138 shirts in Turn 3. CLICK HERE for full deets.

Now I’ll be the first to admit I know little-to-nothing about the intricacies of the sport of horse racing; however, I have cashed a winning Derby ticket four of the past six years (courtesy of Big Brown, Street Sense, Barbaro and Animal Kingdom).

Now that I’ve jinxed my 2012 pick, let it be known the only other horses I have correctly selected to win were Fusaichi Pegasus (2000), Strike the Gold (1991) and Sunday Silence (1989). I recall picking a horse in the 1988 Derby, so I’m gonna say that was my first Derby prediction, which gives me a record of 7-17 in 24 years of action. Take heed before you read any further.

Once the post positions are drawn I will again make my attempt at predicting the perfect Derby, 1st to last place. But for now, here’s my Top 6 and the rest of the field:

6. CREATIVE CAUSE – PP:? – Hasn’t finished out of the money in last seven races dating back to August, 2011. Finished third in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile just behind UNION RAGS and most recently was runner-up in the Santa Anita Derby, won by I’LL HAVE ANOTHER.

5. GEMOLOGIST – PP:? – Never count out Todd Pletcher who thus far has his only Derby win in 2010 with SUPER SAVER. GEMOLOGIST won at Churchill back in November in the Kentucky Jockey Club and also won his last time out, on April 7th in the Resorts World Casino New York City Wood Memorial.

4. WENT THE DAY WELL – PP:? – Trained by H. Graham Motion (Derby 137 winner ANIMAL KINGDOM) WENT THE DAY WELL is also ridden by jockey John Velasquez (Derby 137 winner). Velasquez will be trying to match Calvin Borel’s back-to-backs in Derby 135 and 136 (MINE THAT BIRD and SUPER SAVER). His sire, PROUD CITIZEN, was runner-up in the 2002 Kentucky Derby.

3. BODEMEISTER – PP:? – Putting him in the money based on those around him. Trainer Bob Baffert has won three Kentucky Derbys (1997, 1998 and 2002) and a record-tying five Preakness Stakes. He has also won two of the three legs of the Triple Crown four times. BODEMEISTER will be ridden by Mike Smith, who was aboard GIACOMO to win the 2005 Kentucky Derby. As far as the actual horse’s accomplishments? On April 14th he won the Arkansas Derby at Oaklawn Park.

2. I’LL HAVE ANOTHER – PP:? – Has won both of his 2012 races so far, the Robert B. Lewis in February and the Santa Anita Derby on April 7th. Also the favorite for most uttered phrase in the infield and out on Derby day.

1. UNION RAGS – PP:? – Third on the Graded Stakes Earnings List with just over $1.1 million in winnings and ridden by Julian Leparoux, UNION RAGS opened as the favorite. He finished 2nd at the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile back in November at Churchill, won the Fountain of Youth in February and finished third in the Florida Derby on March 31st. Next up is winning the Kentucky Derby…

The rest of the entrants in alphabetical order:
ALPHA
DADDY LONG LEGS
DADDY NOSE BEST
DONE TALKING
DULLAHAN
EL PADRINO
HANSEN
LIAISON
OPTIMIZER
PROSPECTIVE
ROUSING SERMON
SABERCAT
TAKE CHARGE INDY
TRINNIBERG

Nick’s Picks
Win: Stay Thirsty
Place: Uncle Mo
Show: Dude horse…we think he meant Game on Dude but he could think Jeff Lebowski has a horse in the race!

Follow @Straitpinkie for great coverage on Cards,Cats,Yumps, and Sports

Jason’s Picks
Win: Stay Thirsty…as self professed functioning alcoholic, there was no other choice!
Place: Flat Out
Show:Game On Dude

@ZeroStarRecruit will be live tweeting from today’s action

George’s Picks
Win:Flat Out
Place: Havre De Grace …that lady is a tramp
Show: Stay Thirsty

Follow @StraitSportsG for all things sports and some things not

Carl’s Picks
Win:Uncle Mo – either a great horse or an idiot family member, either way Carl likes him
Place:So You Think
Show: Havre de Grace

See some of Carl’s Better Work Here

Insider Pick, and by insider I mean on the turf
Andy
Win: Havre de Grace
Place: Stay Thirsty …do you notice a theme with this bunch?
Show: Flat Out

Don’t Follow @Andy he will follow you Chuck Norris style

Watch the race live on ESPN, post time is 7pm
and to get you in the mood here is last years race again..still gives me chills, Damn you Blame!

Barbaro, who entered the Derby undefeated, runs away from the pack, to win the 132nd Kentucky Derby. One of the most iconic horses of all-time, Barbaro had the entire nation watching closely after his injury at the Preakness. The sports world was staggered by his eventual passing and in honor of his memory, Churchill Downs recently unveiled a statue of the Derby winner.

2007 Kentucky Derby – Street Sense

At the 1/2 mile-marker, Street Sense is 19th of 20 horses. But, Calvin Borel gets him to hit his stride to beat Hard Spun to the line by three links and win the 133rd Kentucky Derby.

2008 Kentucky Derby – Big Brown

Big Brown dominates the field to win the 134th Kentucky Derby for controversial trainer Rick Dutrow. Unfortunately, this Derby will also be remembered for the filly, Eight Belles, who finished second and was later euphanized after suffering injuiry.

2009 Kentucky Derby – Mine That Bird

In the second biggest upset in Kentucky Derby history (Donerail, 1913), 50-1 longshot Mine That Bird, with Calvin Borel aboard, came from last to first to win the 135th running before an announced crowd of 153,563 at Churchill Downs.

2010 Kentucky Derby – Super Saver

Calvin Bo-Rail does it again…this time on Super Saver.

Monarchos runs the second-fastest Kentucky Derby in history to claim the Roses, at 1:59.97, and becomes only the second horse in Kentucky Derby history to finish under two minutes. Secretariat, the Greatest Horse of All-Time, finished at 1:59.40.

2002 Kentucky Derby – War Emblem

War Emblem goes wire-to-wire, and finds another gear late, to win the 128th Kentucky Derby and give Bob Baffert his third Kentucky Derby victory.

2003 Kentucky Derby – Funny Cide

In the 129th Run for the Roses, Funny Cide, at 12-1, hangs on to win the Kentucky Derby.

2004 Kentucky Derby – Smarty Jones

Smarty Jones wins the 130th Kentucky Derby on one of the sloppiest tracks in history. He becomes the first undefeated horse to win the Derby since Seattle Slew in 1977. Stewart Elliot also wins his first Derby at the age of 39. The poor track conditions make this the slowest Kentucky Derby (1:04.06) since 1958 when Tim Tam won in 2:05.00.

2005 Kentucky Derby – Giacomo

Giacomo comes from the back of the pack to win the 131st Kentucky Derby in a three-way photo finish with Closing Argument and Afleet Alex.

2011 Kentucky Derby Post Positions

1. Arch Arch Arch
2. Brilliant Speed
3. Twice the Appeal
4. Stay Thirsty
5. Decisive Moment
6. Comma to the Top
7. Pants on Fire
8. Dialed In
9. Derby Kitten
10. Twinspired
11. Master of Hounds
12. Santiva
13. Mucho Macho Man
14. Shackleford
15. Midnight Interlude
16. Animal Kingdom
17. Soldat
18. Uncle Mo
19. Nehro
20. Watch Me Go

Get you some Kentucky Derby Betting now! Let’s go people!