Mystik Dan Clinches Kentucky Derby in Nail-Biting Photo Finish

LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY — In a breathtaking finish that will be remembered in Kentucky Derby history, Mystik Dan, ridden by jockey Brian Hernandez Jr., emerged victorious in the 150th running of the iconic race at Churchill Downs on Saturday evening. Entering the race as an 18-1 underdog, the bay colt held a narrow lead down the stretch and, after a tense photo finish, secured the victory by a nose over Sierra Leone and Forever Young.

The race unfolded dramatically in front of a crowd of 156,710 spectators, with the decision hanging in the balance for several minutes before officials declared Mystik Dan the winner. "The longest few minutes of my life," Hernandez said after the race, expressing disbelief as he and Mystik Dan awaited the final call. "To see your number flash up to win the Derby, I don't think it will sink in for a while."

Mystik Dan's triumph in this thrilling race secures a $3.1 million prize, part of the largest purse in Derby history totaling $5 million. The runner-up, Sierra Leone, claimed $1 million, while Forever Young, who finished third, earned $500,000. The payout to Mystik Dan's supporters was $39.22 to win, $16.32 to place, and $10 to show.

For trainer Kenny McPeek, this win represents another high point in an already impressive career. Just a day earlier, he and Hernandez led Thorpedo Anna to victory in the Kentucky Oaks, making McPeek the first trainer since Ben Jones in 1952 to win both the Kentucky Derby and Oaks in the same year. McPeek had previously orchestrated a massive upset in the 2002 Belmont Stakes with 70-1 Sarava.

Sierra Leone returned $6.54 to place and $4.64 to show, while Forever Young paid $5.58 to show, narrowly finishing behind Sierra Leone. Despite Sierra Leone bumping Forever Young three times in the stretch, jockey Ryusei Sakai chose not to file a foul claim.

The 150th Kentucky Derby will be remembered for its dramatic and historic finish, with Mystik Dan overcoming long odds to clinch a well-deserved victory, etching his name in horse racing lore.