While the action occurs in Kentucky, fans across the U.S., including North Carolina ones, seek ways to participate in the tradition through wagering.
The 151st Kentucky Derby will occur on Saturday, May 3, 2025, with post time for the main event set at 6:57 p.m. ET. With 14 races scheduled throughout the day and coverage beginning at 2:30 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock, Derby Day offers more than two minutes of excitement. And while North Carolina lacks a significant horse racing presence, the state’s growing interest in sports wagering has made Kentucky Derby betting more accessible than ever.
Historically, North Carolina hasn’t had a strong horse racing tradition, but that’s slowly changing. Residents have long shown interest in major national events like the Kentucky Derby and the Breeders’ Cup.
Though fixed-odds horse betting is not yet available, residents can wager on horse races through online sportsbooks that offer horse racing as part of their broader betting menu. These platforms provide a safe pathway for North Carolinians eager to bet on Kentucky Derby contenders.
Visit an operator's website that allows Kentucky Derby betting. BUSR may be an example, depending on which has integrated racing into its North Carolina offerings.
Provide your full name, residential address, and last four digits of your SSN. You must be at least 21 years old. Verification is usually instant and ensures compliance with U.S. gambling laws.
Accepted deposit methods often include:
Deposits are typically instant. Some platforms offer bonuses tied to Kentucky Derby betting, so check the promotions tab.
Leading up to May 3, platforms release the Derby field, including:
Studying this information helps you make informed bets. Remember, odds fluctuate based on the wagered money, so that early picks may change in value by the time of the post.
Types of wagers include:
Most beginners start with Win, Place, or Show bets. More experienced players may box their picks to increase chances.
Navigate to the betting page, choose your wager type, enter your stake (e.g., $2 Win on Journalism), and submit your bet. The system will send you a virtual ticket confirming your accepted bet.
Use the sportsbook’s live stream to watch the undercard races and the Derby. Most platforms display results in real time and automatically update your balance with winnings.
Turn Derby Day into a social event to make Derby Day even more exciting. Print out the race card, set up a mock betting pool, and serve Southern dishes like hot browns and Derby pie. Offer themed cocktails like the Mint Julep or Oaks Lily.
Encourage guests to dress up—bow ties, seersucker suits, and extravagant hats are the norm. Introduce your friends to Kentucky Derby betting via the online racebook, and you’ll all enjoy a more immersive experience.
Kentucky Derby odds are determined through the pari-mutuel system, meaning they’re dynamic and influenced by the public’s betting behavior. A horse with long odds early in the day could become a favorite by post time.
Balancing risk and value is key when you bet on Kentucky Derby races.
These are the Kentucky Derby contenders that lead the odds (BUSR odds) for May 3rd:
Keep an eye on prep race performances and track conditions. US Racing News outlets often provide expert picks and insights closer to race day.
Whether you're a seasoned handicapper or a first-time viewer, betting on the Kentucky Derby from North Carolina is easier than ever thanks to online wagering. With racebooks offering secure access, live streaming, and expert data, you can get the whole Churchill Downs experience without leaving the Tar Heel State.
From analyzing Kentucky Derby odds to placing strategic trifecta bets, the excitement of the Derby is entirely within reach. As you bet on Kentucky Derby action this May, remember to gamble responsibly and enjoy the race-day traditions that make this event one of a kind.
So mix your julep, gather your friends, and place your bets. The 2025 Kentucky Derby promises history—and you can be a part of it from North Carolina.
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.
