The Latonia Derby, held at Latonia Race Track near Covington from 1887 to 1937, was a significant event in Kentucky horse racing, often attracting larger crowds than the Kentucky Derby. Initially known as the Hindoo Stakes, the race featured top 3-year-old thoroughbreds and offered substantial purses, making it a prestigious competition. Notable horses, including Kentucky Derby winners, frequently participated, with the first Latonia Derby winner being Libretto in 1887.
Throughout its history, the Latonia Derby showcased remarkable moments, such as the 1888 race where two horses finished simultaneously, leading to a runoff. The event gained popularity, with larger purses than the Kentucky Derby at times, and notable winners like Ben Brush and Handy Mandy, the latter setting a record in 1927. The race also introduced incentives, like a bonus for Kentucky Derby winners, further enhancing its appeal.
The Latonia Derby’s final race occurred in 1937, with diminishing purses and changing race distances reflecting the impact of the Great Depression on the horse racing industry. Despite its decline, the race left a lasting legacy, commemorated by a historical marker, and remains a significant chapter in Kentucky’s equestrian history.
