The Triple Crown represents the pinnacle of achievement in American thoroughbred horse racing, comprising three prestigious races: the Kentucky Derby, the Preakness Stakes, and the Belmont Stakes. Achieving victory in all three is a rare feat, accomplished by only 13 horses in history, underscoring the series' difficulty and prestige.
The Kentucky Derby, held annually on the first Saturday in May at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, is often called "The Run for the Roses." This race covers 1¼ miles and is renowned for its rich traditions, including mint juleps and extravagant hats. Bet on the Kentucky Derby is a significant aspect of the event, attracting both seasoned bettors and casual fans eager to partake in the excitement.
Following the Kentucky Derby, the Preakness Stakes takes place on the third Saturday in May at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Maryland. Known as "The Run for the Black-Eyed Susans," this race is slightly shorter at 1 3/16 miles. Bet on the Preakness Stakes offers enthusiasts another opportunity to engage with the Triple Crown journey, analyzing contenders who may have competed in the Derby or new entrants aiming for glory.
Concluding the Triple Crown series, the Belmont Stakes occurs in early June at Belmont Park in Elmont, New York. "The Test of the Champion" is the longest of the three races at 1½ miles, challenging horses' endurance and speed. Bet on the Belmont Stakes is particularly thrilling when a horse vies for the Triple Crown title, adding an extra layer of anticipation and strategy for bettors.
In an ambitious move to delve into the world of horse racing, Netflix is set to premiere "Race for the Crown," a six-part documentary series, on April 22, 2025. Produced by Box to Box Films, known for their work on "Formula 1: Drive to Survive," this series aims to provide an intimate look into the lives of jockeys, trainers, and owners as they navigate the high-stakes journey through the Triple Crown season.
"Race for the Crown" boasts an impressive lineup of horse racing luminaries. The series features renowned jockeys such as Brian Hernandez Jr., Frankie Dettori, and Katie Davis, offering viewers a glimpse into their rigorous preparations and the pressures they face on and off the track. Prominent trainers like Bob Baffert and Kenny McPeek also share their insights, providing a comprehensive view of the sport's inner workings.
Beyond the races themselves, the series delves into the rich traditions and cultural significance of horse racing. Viewers will gain an understanding of the deep-rooted customs that make events like the Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes, and Belmont Stakes more than just competitions but celebrations of history and heritage.
By bringing the narratives of horse racing to a global platform, "Race for the Crown" has the potential to boost awareness and appreciation for the sport in America. The series' storytelling approach aims to captivate audiences, drawing parallels to the success of other sports documentaries that have revitalized interest in their respective fields.
The series’ heightened visibility is expected to boost the off-track betting industry. As interest builds, viewers are likely to become more invested in the stories of the horses and their connections, leading to increased betting activity around the Triple Crown races. Consequently, this surge in engagement could attract a broader audience to wager on marquee events like the Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes, and Belmont Stakes, ultimately injecting fresh energy into the industry.
"Race for the Crown" boldly introduces the exhilarating world of horse racing to a wider audience. By highlighting the dedication, strategy, and passion behind the pursuit of the Triple Crown, Netflix not only entertains but also educates viewers on the sport’s depth and intricacies. As the series progresses, it’s positioned to reshape public perception and elevate the popularity of horse racing and its betting culture.
For a glimpse into the series, watch the official trailer below:
The writing team at US Racing is comprised of both full-time and part-time contributors with expertise in various aspects of the Sport of Kings.
