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Updated · Courier Journal · May 2Irad Ortiz Jr wins Old Forester Bourbon Turf Classic
9 articles · Updated · Courier Journal · May 2
- Riding Rhetorical, Ortiz took the 40th running on Kentucky Derby Day at Churchill Downs in Louisville during the 152nd Derby on 2 May 2026.
- The race was part of a packed undercard that also featured wins for T O Elvis in The Churchill Downs and Stark Contrast in The American Turf.
- Other Derby Day winners included Crude Velocity in the Pat Day Mile, Classic Q in the Distaff Turf Mile, Tour Player and Yellow Card.
With record crowds and economic impact, how is Churchill Downs balancing tradition, safety, and innovation in the modern era of horse racing? How did Golden Tempo overcome the odds and post position curse to make Derby history, and what does this mean for future trainers and bettors?