About Derby Insider

Derby Insider explains American Thoroughbred racing for people who bet a few times a year and want to understand what they are doing. We cover how pari-mutuel betting works, what each bet costs and pays, and how to read a past performance, a speed figure or a workout line, with the arithmetic shown.

Most of what we publish is built from the published record: Equibase result charts, the tracks' own wagering rules, state racing regulations, The Jockey Club Fact Book, and the Kentucky Derby, Preakness, Belmont Stakes and Breeders' Cup sites. Our reference pages (winners, payouts by year, the year's major races and their dates, the racetracks in each state) cite their source on every row. We do not claim inside information, we do not attend morning workouts, and we do not sell picks.

Racing is a betting sport and every bet can lose. Wager only where it is legal for you, at an age your state allows, and with money you can afford to lose. If gambling stops being fun, the National Problem Gambling Helpline is free and confidential: call or text 1-800-MY-RESET (1-800-697-3738), or visit ncpgambling.org.