2017 Kentucky Derby Starting to Heat Up

The 2017 Kentucky Derby is just a few weeks away. And while we don’t yet have a solid field in front of us yet, we do know who some of the top horses projected to win already are. This is the biggest event of the year in the world of horse racing, and we’re excited to take a look at these horses. If you’re a fan of horses, the Run for the Roses is the race to watch.

Right now, the top rated horse in the field is Classic Empire. The expert analysts have given him 5-1 odds, but there have been some doubts expressed in terms of his speed. His top Beyer figure is just 94 and the field in the Arkansas Derby—his last race—was not that strong. Still, because of the fact that Arkansas is typically considered one of the big Kentucky prep races, Classic Empire has risen to the top of the field. If he stays the top choice, you can expect his payout to decrease. With other talented horses in the field, this is one horse not worth risking too much on. At least given our current knowledge of him.

Irish War Cry looks like a much better pay out right now. Not only are the current odds resting at around 8-1 right now, but he has the strongest Beyer figure in the field at 101. Yes, the Kentucky Derby is the longest race that he will have run in his career, and yes he has had great trips on his big wins (Wood Memorial and Holy Bull), but Irish War Cry looks like he has more raw speed than any other horse out there.

Thunder Snow is a horse that should be on your radar, too. The current odds stand at 20-1, but that’s a good thing at this point. Thunder Snow isn’t receiving a lot of attention because of these low odds, but low odds equal big money if a win happens. He won the UAE Derby by a nose, posting a Beyer of 94. Now there are a few other horses with Beyer numbers in the mid 90s, but because of his low profile, this is a horse that could be considered a longshot. The disadvantage? No Dubai based horse has ever won the Kentucky Derby. There’s a first for everything, though. This might be the year.

The Kentucky Derby will take place on May 6th, 2017. There’s plenty of time to decide which horses are worthy of wagering some money on still. Stay tuned to Horse Racing Hottie for updates!