The True History of the Kentucky Derby

- Kelly, Mark Everett*
The crowning jewel of the Triple Crown held its inaugural race on May 17, 1875, at Churchill Downs. Thirteen of the 15 jockeys that day were African American.

From 1875 to 1903, 15 of the 28 winners were Black men who dominated the sport. While the owners were upper-class, their horses' trainers were not. The trust established between them, though, led to the trainers becoming jockeys. Ultimately, money spoke louder than race.

Filled with historical facts and in-depth profiles, this is a must-hear for true sports fans.