Kentucky Derby Odds, Betting Market and Horses – 2021

The first leg of the Triple Crown sees undefeated favourite Essential Quality go around as a $3.70 chance with TAB in Sunday morning’s Kentucky Derby from Churchill Downs.

Essential Quality represents global powerhouse Godolphin who are looking for their first win in the 147th edition of the feature. Jockey Luis Saez takes the ride and both he and Godolphin will be hoping some redemption in the feature after being luckless in previous editions.

Saez was first past the post on Maximum Security in 2019 but the horse was disqualified just minutes after the race while Godolphin has struck out with all 11 horses that have carried their silks so far.

Santa Anita Derby winner Rock Your World ($6.50), trained by John Sadler, will attempt to replicate the feat of 2020 Kentucky Derby winner Authentic from barrier 15, plus five others winners who have saluted from the same stall.

The Todd Pletcher-trained Florida Derby winner Known Agenda ($9.50) will hope for some favours in the race after drawing the inside barrier, while Hot Rod Charlie ($9.50) has drawn barrier 9 and will be looking to build on his Louisiana Derby credentials to secure the race for trainer Doug O’Neill.

“At this stage we have seen a sprinkling of money for Rock Your World and Highly Motivated while Essential Quality isn’t too far behind in the popularity stakes,” TAB’s Andrew Georgiou said.

The Kentucky Derby will he shown on SKY Racing 1 on Sunday morning and is set to jump at 8:57am.