If there’s one sure bet at the Kentucky Derby, it’s that there is a party. No matter the weather or whatever horse wins the race.
That was proven in 2025 as Sovereignty, which started 17th in the 19-horse field, beat heavily faorited Journalism to win the 152nd Run For The Roses. The upset paid $17.96 on a $2 win wager. All day, the 147,406 people at Churchill Downs were soaked but that did not stop them from partying. On the contrary, it only encouraged the “oh what the hell” attitude as Kentucky bourbon, beer and Mint Juleps went down throats as heavily as the rain did to the track.
Dirt turned into mud, which only meant officials did not have to spray water to create the traditional mud pit in the wild Kentucky Derby infield party scene.
In the grandstands, the more refined Kentucky Derby fans said the heck with high fashion, put on panchos and did not let the conditions damper the fun, festive atmosphere. If there’s one certainty in sports and in the party world, it’s that the Kentucky Derby is a party whether its sunny or raining. That is as much of a tradition as Mint Juleps, derby hats, roses and the playing of “My Old Kentucky Home.”
Certainly the 2025 Kentucky Derby lived up to those traditions, even with the longshot Sovereignty winning the race.
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