These are the best and most curious names of horses in the 2025 Kentucky Derby

When it comes to horse racing, the prestigious Kentucky Derby is known across the globe. Every year the start of May brings with in a thunder of hooves for the annual event, a challenge that has been going since its inception in 1875.

As a Grade I stakes race, it attracts elite three-year-old thoroughbred horses meticulously bred for speed and endurance. Each contender carries a specific weight – colts and geldings carry 126 pounds and fillies 121 pounds – assigned to ensure a level playing field. Governed by strict regulatory standards, the Derby upholds principles of horse welfare, integrity, and fairness. And funny names.

For the casual fan looking to place a bet, the names of the contenders often carry a weight of their own. Beyond a simple number, they encapsulate the spirit, aspirations, and sometimes, the mystique of the equine athletes.

As the anticipation mounts for the 2025 edition, let’s take a look into the some of the intriguing horse names gracing the track...

Best-named horses at the 2025 Kentucky Derby

Render Judgement - If you’re looking for a horse name that emits seriousness and a sense of overarching destiny, look no further. For all the whacky names that have graced the Derby over the years, this one stands out for its sobriety and perhaps hints at a horse that is focused on doing the business.

Chunk of Gold - For those thinking of placing a bet on the Kentucky Derby, the omens are good here. Not only does the name hint at the horse’s incredible value (it costs $50,000 just to enter the race) but it may allude to a big windfall coming to those who back it. ‘Chunk of Gold’, it happens, is also quite a satisfying name to say.

Sandman - “Say your prayers, little one. Don’t forget, my son. To include everyone. I tuck you in, warm within. Keep you free from sin. ‘Til the sandman, he comes.” Whether or not this horse was named after Metallica’s 1991 song ‘Enter Sandman’, the mere thought of that iconic first verse will undoubtedly get you pumped, exactly what is needed ahead of a big race. Motivational.

Flying Mohawk - A name that conjures up images of wild, untamed lands and endless horizons. The name ‘Flying Mohawk’ may not mean anything (it doesn’t) but it certainly evokes a sense of speed and dynamism that is exactly what you’d hope to see in a race horse.

Those are our pick of the names, but there is a grand total of 20 horses competing in the race. Here’s the full list...

The 2025 Kentucky Derby will take place at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky. Coverage of the event will begin at 2:30pm ET on NBC, with streamers able to watch the action on Peacock from noon ET. The big race will begin at 6:57pm ET.

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