Derby numbers strong

On-track and off-track wagering records were established on Saturday's Kentucky Derby (G1),

which became the first U.S. race to attract total betting of more

than $100 million. The second-largest crowd, 156,435, in Kentucky Derby history

was on hand, and GIACOMO's (Holy Bull) surprising victory notched an impressive

8.2 overnight rating and 19 share, the fourth-highest overnight broadcast

numbers since 1992.

On-track betting on the 131st Run for the Roses totaled $10,055,508, a 6

percent increase over $9,488,539 wagered on the 2004 running. Off-track wagering

rose 3.8 percent to $93,270,002 from $89,875,549 last year. The Derby Day crowd

wagered $22,117,166 for the entire card, nearly 15 percent better than

$19,246,210 12 twelve months earlier.

Off-track wagering on the complete Churchill Downs program rose to a record

$133,016,465, an increase of 7.6 percent from $123,602,079 last year.

The Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks (G1) were held at the newly renovated

Churchill Downs, which underwent a $121 million facelift, and the combined attendance for both events was a record 267,678.