Kentucky Derby Preview: Top Horses to Watch

The 147th Kentucky Derby will feature 19 horses competing for the garland of roses. Here are some top contenders, including Forte and Tapit Trice.

The Kentucky Derby, one of the biggest horse racing events, is set to take place with 19 horses competing for the coveted garland of red roses. Most of the 3-year-olds will be running 1 1/4 miles for the first time, with traffic-choked conditions typically eliminating half the field.

Some of the horses to watch include Forte, the early 3-1 favorite, Angel of Empire, a strong off-the-pace runner, and Tapit Trice, a powerful late runner. The field also includes two Japanese horses, Derma Sotogake and Mandarin Hero.

Confidence Game, purchased for only $25,000, will also be competing after a 10-week layoff.