Pouring rain didn't seem to lessen the attendance at Saturday's Kentucky Derby, and it surely didn't stop folks from gambling. In fact, yesterday's 14-race program set a Kentucky Derby record with a handle of $227.5 million, surpassing the previous record of $209.2 million that was set last year.
The Derby race itself also set a record with wagers totaling $149.9 million, an 8% increase from 2017.
Business Wrap: $225.7 million wagered on @KentuckyDerby Day 14-race program smashed previous record. Betting up 8%. Record $149.9 million bet on #KyDerby alone. Story: https://t.co/hshV2UNBtupic.twitter.com/1tnbaznx1l
— Churchill Downs PR (@DerbyMedia) May 6, 2018
As for the attendance, 157,813 people packed themselves into Churchill Downs for the event, the eighth-highest total in Derby history.
Photo: Mike Smith aboard Justify (7) crosses the finish line to win the 144th running of the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs.
