The Kentucky Derby is more than just a horse race—it's a springtime spectacle of fashion, tradition, and the thrilling start of a quest for one of sports' most elusive prizes: the Triple Crown. With only 13 champions ever to sweep all three legs, the "Run for the Roses" remains the ultimate proving ground for greatness.

Since 1979, just two horses—American Pharoah and Justify—have captured the Triple Crown, and only one jockey, Eddie Arcaro, has done it multiple times. The journey begins at Churchill Downs on the first Saturday in May, with the Derby covering 1 1/4 miles, the middle distance of the three-race series. Though it's the youngest of the Triple Crown events, dating back to 1875, the Derby is widely regarded as the most prestigious.

The action continues two weeks later at the Preakness Stakes (1 3/16 miles), followed by the grueling 1 1/2-mile Belmont Stakes three weeks after that. While all three races carry immense weight, nothing compares to the pageantry and hope that the Derby brings. Winning the first leg guarantees a shot at history, and the pressure only builds from there.

So, which horses have claimed the Derby and gone on to compete for the Triple Crown? And who actually achieved it? Let's take a closer look at the champions who have left their mark on horse racing's grandest stage.

To date, there have been 152 official Kentucky Derby winners. Among them, Secretariat stands alone as the gold standard. In 1973, he set the all-time track record with a blistering 1:59.40, a mark that still holds today. He went on to dominate the Preakness and Belmont, securing the Triple Crown and cementing his legacy as perhaps the greatest racehorse in American history.

Whether you're a seasoned racing fan or new to the sport, the Kentucky Derby offers a timeless blend of speed, strategy, and style. For those looking to capture the spirit of the race, there's no better way than to celebrate its champions—and maybe even dress the part. After all, the Derby isn't just about who crosses the finish line first; it's about the journey, the tradition, and the enduring pursuit of greatness.