Louisville, Ky. – There will be a $1 million bonus at the Kentucky Derby if the first-place horse wins by more than 6 1/2 lengths – the margin of Barbaro’s victory last year. The bonus would be divided equally Saturday among the winning trainer, jockey, owner and the Barbaro Memorial Fund.
“What’s really cool is it will force us to remember Barbaro,” said Churchill Downs president and chief executive Robert Evans. The bonus would be paid by Yum! Brands, the Derby’s presenting sponsor.
Barbaro’s winning margin was the largest since 1946, when Assault won by eight lengths. Only four other horses in the race’s 132-year history have won by 6 1/2 lengths or more.
Barbaro broke his right hind leg in the Preakness Stakes and was euthanized in January after a struggle that captivated the nation. The Barbaro Memorial Fund benefits the New Bolton Center in Kennett Square, Pa., where the colt underwent several operations and lived out his final months.
