History and Past Results for Jockeys and Trainers in 2021 Kentucky Derby – John Velazquez, Mike Smith, Bob Baffert & More

• The Kentucky Derby features the top jockeys and trainers in the United States
• While horses can run in the Kentucky Derby only once, human connections try over and over again
• What can we learn from looking at jockey and trainer trends and Run for the Roses history?

When Authentic crossed under the Twin Spires at Churchill Downs first in September’s rescheduled 2020 Kentucky Derby, trainer Bob Baffert won the Run for the Roses for a record-tying sixth time. While horses are only able to compete in the biggest race in the country as three-year-olds, trainers and jockeys try over and over again.

Last year we might have said the New England Patriots didn’t have the horses to win another Super Bowl. That said, one could argue if the Pats were without Bill Belichick what was a down 7-9 season may have been 5-11 or worse.

Jockey’s and trainers matter in horse racing, but indeed Baffert can’t make a slow horse run fast. Let’s look at some key people in this year’s Kentucky Derby, and analyze what it all means.

2021 Kentucky Derby Jockeys

Part of online Kentucky Derby betting is understanding how the race will be run. Jockey’s in large part dictate that. Do you move your horse early? Duck inside to save ground but know eventually you need to weave your way through? It is important to have a general idea of the tempo taking place so you can identify when to pounce. Experienced jockeys, particularly those who have ridden at Churchill Downs, have an advantage and can affect the Kentucky Derby odds.

While it is probably advisable to be cautious with jockeys who are very light on experience, largely the Kentucky Derby features the top pilots in the country. As much as a jockey makes important decisions, and they can certainly lose races, horses need to have the goods to win them.

2021 Kentucky Derby Trainers

Like the riders, there is a reason you see a lot of trainers listed that have experience in the Run for the Roses. Deep-pocketed owners covet conditioners who have proven they can win the big one. While it comes down to the horses in the end, what races they run in leading up to May 1, when they are given time off, their training and race instructions are provided by the trainer.

There are different ways to skin a cat. Some trainers think more experience on the track is better, while others value rest. Run against top horses in prep races, or build confidence and come in as more of an unknown? The trainers this weekend are top end, but there is a confidence in backing those who have won the Derby before, or at least come close.

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