The 147th Kentucky Derby returns to its traditional first Saturday in May after being postponed in 2020 due to Covid-19. The $3 million race features a 20-horse field competing for the first jewel of the Triple Crown.

Essential Quality leads the field after dominating the Road to the Kentucky Derby qualifying series with 140 points and four consecutive victories. Starting from post position 14 at 2/1 odds, he's the clear favorite but could face traffic challenges.

Key Contenders:

• Known Agenda (6/1) - Florida Derby winner starting from advantageous inside post
• Rock Your World (5/1) - Undefeated Santa Anita Derby winner but inexperienced with only one prep race
• Medina Spirit (15/1) - Bob Baffert-trained horse with points in four prep races
• Super Stock (30/1) - Arkansas Derby winner trained by Steve Asmussen
• Like the King (50/1) - Jeff Ruby Steaks winner starting from second post position

Notable longshot Bourbonic (72/1) pulled off a historic upset in the Wood Memorial, while the Jeff Ruby winner Like the King (50/1) earned his spot with a win on synthetic surface at Turfway Park.

The wide-open field and Essential Quality's potentially challenging post position could set up an exciting and unpredictable Run for the Roses.

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