Kentucky Derby 2025 Prep Races. 15 with the risen star stakes at fair grounds, and. 31 rows these prep races allow thoroughbreds to earn qualifying points that determine the 20 horses who will compete in the kentucky derby.
To earn a spot in the starting gate, they must travel along the road to the kentucky derby, a series of designated races at tracks across the country and around the world. Lineup and details for the initial 2025 kentucky derby and oaks preparatory races