For horse racing fans, the 2012 Kentucky Derby weekend isn’t just about the Derby race itself. There’s plenty of action throughout the week leading up to the event as well — from special events here and there to the running of the Kentucky Oaks on the Friday before the Derby. This year’s running of the Oaks is the 138th, and it’s clear that the entire weekend is filled with rich tradition and history.
For those new to the Kentucky Oaks race, it’s always held on the Friday before the Derby at Churchill Downs for three year old Thoroughbred fillies. The race length is 1 and 1/8 miles long, and the winner receives a $600,000 total purse. Last year, Bob Baffert’s horse, Plum Pretty, took the race. Baffert has won three previous Derbies, so this weekend is generally good to him. You can also check the latest barn notes here.
TV: Kentucky Oaks 138 will be on NBC Sports Network
Time: 4:00pm to 5:00pm Central Time
For more on the world of horse racing, head to And Down The Stretch They Come. For more on the 2012 Kentucky Derby, keep it locked to this StoryStream.