May 4, 2024 – LOUISVILLE, Ky.
In a thrilling and historic moment, Mystik Dan has won the 150th running of the Kentucky Derby by just a nose. This marks the first time in 77 years that a horse has won by such a small margin, making it one of the closest finishes in Kentucky Derby history.
After an intense race filled with fierce competition from other top horses like Fierceness and Sierra Leone, Mystik Dan crossed the finish line in a time of 2:03.59. The packed crowd at Churchill Downs erupted into cheers as the results were announced, with many fans in disbelief at the close finish.
Mystik Dan’s jockey, Joe Smith, was praised for his skilled ride as he navigated the horse to victory. This win also marks Smith’s first Kentucky Derby win in his 15-year career.
The race itself was a spectacle, with over $150 million bet on the outcome. The top three horses were neck and neck throughout the race, with Mystik Dan pulling ahead in the final seconds to secure the win.
This historic victory for Mystik Dan is just another chapter in a long legacy of triumphant moments at the Kentucky Derby. The race, which has been held annually since 1875, is known as “The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports” and it certainly lived up to its name this year.
As the celebrations and champagne flowed in the winner’s circle, for some it was a bittersweet moment as Sierra Leone, who was favored to win the race, came in second. However, owner John Smith still expressed pride in his horse’s performance and congratulated Mystik Dan on the well-deserved win.
With such a close finish and an unforgettable race, it’s safe to say that the 2024 Kentucky Derby will go down in history as one of the most memorable races yet. The excitement and anticipation for next year’s race is already building as fans eagerly await to see who will take home the crown at Churchill Downs. Until then, Mystik Dan and Joe Smith will continue to bask in their victory.