88-Year-Old Trainer Aims to Make History at 2024 Kentucky Derby with Just Steel

The 2024 Kentucky Derby is set to take place on Saturday at Churchill Downs, with 88-year-old trainer D. Wayne Lukas hoping to secure his place in history as the oldest trainer ever to claim victory at the prestigious event.

Lukas, a four-time Kentucky Derby winner, will be saddling Just Steel, a horse with a notable pedigree for Kentucky Derby 150. Just Steel, a son of the renowned Justify, who achieved the 2018 Triple Crown title, has swiftly risen to prominence as one of the most sought-after studs in America. Following a runner-up finish in the Arkansas Derby, Just Steel boasts the distinction of being the most experienced horse in the field, with 11 starts under his belt. Notably, he is priced at 20-1 in the 2024 Kentucky Derby odds.

Top Favorite

Fierceness holds the position of 5-2 favorite for the 2024 Kentucky Derby, following victories at the Florida Derby and Breeders' Cup Juvenile. The race is scheduled to commence at 6:57 p.m. ET on the day of the event, providing avid fans and enthusiasts with an exciting spectacle.

Prior to making any selections for the 2024 Kentucky Derby, individuals are encouraged to review the insights and future bets provided by SportsLine's esteemed horse racing expert, Jody Demling. With a strong presence in the horse racing community, Demling has a track record of accurately predicting major racing events, including the Belmont Stakes and the Breeders' Cup Classic.

Expert Analysis

Demling's expertise extends to the Kentucky Derby, with a remarkable record of accurately predicting the winners of the Derby-Oaks doubles at Churchill Downs. Having correctly picked 10 of the last 15 Derby-Oaks doubles, and 10 of the last 19 Preakness winners, Demling's insights hold significant weight within the horse racing community.

2024 Kentucky Derby Odds and Projections

As anticipation builds for the event, the 2024 Kentucky Derby odds and future projections offer valuable insights for enthusiasts and bettors. The following list outlines the odds and projections for the participating horses:

• Dornoch: 20-1
• Sierra Leone: 3-1
• Mystik Dan: 20-1
• Catching Freedom: 8-1
• Catalytic: 30-1
• Just Steel: 20-1
• Honor Marie: 20-1
• Just a Touch: 10-1
• Encino: 20-1 (SCRATCHED)
• T O Password (JPN): 30-1
• Forever Young (JPN): 10-1
• Track Phantom: 20-1
• West Saratoga: 50-1
• Endlessly: 30-1
• Domestic Product: 30-1
• Grand Mo the First: 50-1
• Fierceness: 5-2
• Stronghold: 20-1
• Resilience: 20-1
• Society Man: 50-1
• Epic Ride: 30-1

With these comprehensive insights and predictions, the stage is set for an exhilarating 2024 Kentucky Derby, offering thrilling prospects for both spectators and enthusiasts keen to engage with this historic event.