Larry Demeritte: Making History at the 150th Kentucky Derby

As the 150th Kentucky Derby approaches on Saturday, May 4, 2024, at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, a remarkable story is unfolding. Larry Demeritte, a 74-year-old trainer from the Bahamas, is set to make history as the second Black trainer since 1951 to participate in the prestigious race. Demeritte's horse, West Saratoga, will be saddling up in Barn 42, the same location where the legendary Seattle Slew prepared for his victorious run in the 1977 Derby.

Demeritte's participation in the Kentucky Derby highlights the lack of diversity in the sport of horse racing and serves as a reminder of the rich contributions of Black horsemen to the sport's history. This story has broader implications for diversity and inclusion in sports, inspiring future generations of Black trainers and horsemen to pursue their dreams.

Demeritte'sjourneyto the Kentucky Derby has been one of perseverance and passion. Despite being diagnosed with cancer in 1996 and undergoing chemotherapy, he never lost sight of his dream. Demeritte's father was a trainer in the Bahamas, and he has carried on that legacy, becoming the leading trainer in his home country for two years. His motto,"I don't buy cheap horses. I buy good horses cheap,"reflects his keen eye for talent and his ability to bring out the best in his horses.

West Saratoga, purchased for just $11,000, is the pride of Demeritte's 11-horse stable at The Thoroughbred Center in Lexington. The grey colt has earned an impressive $460,140 and continues to improve with every start. While West Saratoga has never run on a wet track, his sire, Exaggerator, finished runner-up in the 2016 Derby and went on to win the Preakness and the Haskell on sloppy tracks, givingDemerittehope for a strong performance on Saturday.

Why this matters: Demeritte's participation in the Kentucky Derby holds significant historical importance. In the early years of the race, Black trainers dominated, winning seven of the first 17 editions from 1875 to 1891. However, since 1951, only one other Black trainer, Hank Allen, has participated in the Derby, finishing sixth with Northern Wolf in 1989. Demeritte's presence at the 150th running serves as a reminder of the rich contributions ofBlack horsemento the sport's history.

As Demeritte prepares for the biggest race of his career, he remains grateful for the opportunity and hopeful for the future. "We're so grateful to be here and enjoying every single minute," he said. "This is truly amazing how we got to this position with this horse. I'm hopeful people will see our story and become interested in this sport because this horse is proving anyone with a dream can make it to the Derby stage."

The 150th Kentucky Derby will take place on Saturday, May 4, 2024, with a 43% chance of rain in the forecast. Despite the odds, Larry Demeritte and West Saratoga are ready to make their mark on history. As the secondBlack trainerto participate in the Derby since 1951, Demeritte's presence alone is a victory for diversity and inclusion in the sport of horse racing. All eyes will be on Barn 42 as West Saratoga aims to defy expectations and bring home the coveted garland of roses.

Key Takeaways

• Larry Demeritte, 74, to become 2nd Black trainer in the Kentucky Derby since 1951.
• Demeritte's horse, West Saratoga, purchased for $11,000, has earned $460,140.
• Demeritte's participation highlights lack of diversity in horse racing.
• West Saratoga's sire, Exaggerator, performed well on wet tracks, giving Demeritte hope.
• 150th Kentucky Derby takes place on May 4, 2024, with 43% chance of rain.