Derby (horse race)

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A derby (pronounced "dar-bee" /dɑːbɪ/ in most of the English-speaking world and "dur-bee" /dɚbɪ/ in North American English) is a type of horse race, named after the Epsom Derby, still run at Epsom racecourse in England. It was in turn named for Edward Smith-Stanley, 12th Earl of Derby, who inaugurated the race in 1780. Probably the best-known example in the United States is the Kentucky Derby.

Traditionally, the term "derby" is used strictly to refer to races restricted to three-year-olds, as the English and U.S. Triple Crown races all are. The one notable exception to this rule is the Canadian Pacing Derby, an annual harness race for "aged pacers" four years old and up.

The race is also a popular 'upper crust' sport in India, with races being held in Mumbai, Bangalore and Mysore.

See also horse and Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing.