80-1 shot Rich Strike races to stunning upset win in Kentucky Derby
Rich Strike surged up the rail to win the Kentucky Derby at 80-1, with Zandon and Epicenter dueling in front.
Rich Strike, a 20-horse field horse, was ridden by Jockey Sonny Leon. He beat Epicenter 4-1 by three-quarters lengths. Zandon finished third at Churchill Downs, another three-quarters back. This was in front of an audience that included former President Donald Trump.
Rich Strike’s second-largest upset in race history was recorded at 148 years. For his victory, Rich Strike paid $163.60 US. Only Donerail had a $184.90 payout in 1913.
Rich Strike was not even in the Derby field when Ethereal Road was scratched on Friday, making way for Eric Reed’s chestnut colt. Reed and Leon, both from Venezuela, were competing in their first Derby. Leon rode on small circuits all over the country, including Ohio.
WATCH l Rich Strike wins Kentucky Derby in shocking upset:
Rich Strike, ridden by Sonny Leon, won Saturday’s 148th Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs in Louisville. 1:32
Leon’s rail ride was reminiscent to Calvin Borel on Mine That Bird 2009. Mine That Bird won for $103.20
Rich Strike was bought by owner RED TR-Racing LLC last fall. He was entered in a low-level claiming event by Calumet Farm.
Rich Strike won his second career title with $1.86million.
SourceCBC Sports
