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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
National
Laura Ungar and Christina Larson

What makes a Kentucky Derby champion? Big hearts, immense lungs and powerful legs

Kentucky Derby-Horse Athleticism - (Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

On a crisp, clear morning, a chestnut thoroughbred thundered down the dirt strip at Churchill Downs, his exercise rider leaning forward above the saddle. Other horse-and-rider pairs followed.

Dr. Will Farmer looked down from a viewing point, admiring the speed and agility of the 1,000-pound animals.

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