The 2008 Kentucky Derby was the 134th running of the Kentucky Derby. The race took place on May 3, 2008, with 157,770 in attendance, the second largest in Derby history. Post time was 6:15 p.m. EDT and was televised in the United States on the NBC television network. Big Brown won the race by nearly 5 lengths. Eight Belles, the second-place finisher and the first filly to run the Derby in nine years, was euthanized following the end of the race after fracturing both front ankles while galloping out. It is believed to be the first fatality in Kentucky Derby history.

Payout

Field

Big Brown was made the 2-1 favorite off the strength of his win in the Florida Derby. Other leading contenders included Colonel John (Santa Anita Derby), Pyro (Louisiana Derby), and the filly Eight Belles (Fantasy Stakes).

Subsequent Grade I wins

Several horses recorded Grade I wins after the Derby.

Subsequent breeding careers

Leading progeny of participants in the 2008 Kentucky Derby Big Brown (1st) Colonel John (6th) Court Vision (13th) Tale of Ekati (4th) Sources: American Classic Pedigrees, Equibase, Blood-Horse Stallion Register