Churchill Downs hosted a record 147,406 rain-drenched fans for the 151st Kentucky Derby, run over a sloppy main track. In classic “Run for the Roses” fashion, a long shot seized the day: Sovereignty (7-1) powered home under jockey Junior Alvarado, delivering trainer Bill Mott his second Derby victory
A Rain-Soaked Run
By post time, dark clouds had soaked the infield. Despite fractions set by front-runner Citizen Bull (22.81s for the opening quarter), the sticky surface didn’t slow the bay colt trained by Mott. Racing near the back of the 19-horse field, Sovereignty bided his time in midpack. As the field swung for home, he shifted four-wide, matching strides with 3-1 favorite Journalism. In the final yards, Sovereignty drew clear by 1½ lengths, stopping the timer in 2:02.31 .
Connections & Credentials
- Owner/Breeder: Godolphin, marking the first Derby win in the royal blue silks after a Friday Oaks sweep with Good Cheer.
- Trainer: Bill Mott, whose 2019 victory came only after a steward’s decision; this win left no doubt.
- Jockey: Junior Alvarado, scoring his first “Run for the Roses” triumph in six rides.
A son of Into Mischief out of Crowned (by Bernardini), Sovereignty adds to Into Mischief’s growing legacy—he’s now one of only five stallions to sire three Derby winners
Fashion & Festivity
Derby day fashion reached its heights despite the damp. Women’s wide-brimmed hats—adorned with ostrich plumes—jostled for attention alongside men in pastel blazers and seersucker suits. Mint juleps were wrapped in condensation, while rose garlands awaited the winner in the infield. Even under gray skies, the pageantry of “My Old Kentucky Home” belting out on the infield turf was a reminder why the Derby blends sport with Southern style.
Payouts & Prize
- Win (7-1): $17.96 on a $2 bet
- Exacta (Sovereignty–Journalism): $48.32 for $2
- Trifecta: $115.56 for $0.50
- Superfecta: $1,682.27 for $1
