96th Kentucky Derby: Mike Manganello on Dust Commander wins 2:03.4

On May 2, 1970, the 96th edition of the Kentucky Derby took place at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky. It was a memorable race that saw Mike Manganello riding Dust Commander to victory in a time of 2:03.4. This article will delve into the details of this historic event, highlighting the key moments and showcasing the significance of Dust Commander’s win.

The 1970 Kentucky Derby attracted a field of 17 horses, all vying for a chance to become the champion of one of the most prestigious horse racing events in the world. The race was run on a fast track, under pleasant weather conditions, which set the stage for an exhilarating competition.

As the gates opened, the race got off to an intense start, with each jockey and horse eager to assert their dominance on the field. Dust Commander, a bay colt trained by Don Combs, was not the favorite going into the race but had shown promise in previous outings. As the race unfolded, Dust Commander quickly found himself among the front-runners, positioning himself as a serious contender for the win.

Under the skilled guidance of jockey Mike Manganello, Dust Commander demonstrated remarkable speed and stamina throughout the race. The duo maintained a strong position, trailing closely behind the leaders in the early stages. Manganello patiently timed his moves, carefully conserving Dust Commander’s energy for the crucial final stretch.

As the horses approached the final turn, the crowd erupted in excitement. Dust Commander unleashed a powerful burst of speed, surging ahead of the competition with a determined stride. The colt’s swift acceleration left the other horses behind, as he stormed towards the finish line.

In a display of strength and agility, Dust Commander crossed the finish line first, securing a resounding victory in a remarkable time of 2:03.4. The win came as a surprise to many, as Dust Commander had entered the race with odds of 15-1. However, his impressive performance on that fateful day solidified his place in horse racing history.

Dust Commander’s triumph in the 1970 Kentucky Derby marked a significant milestone in the sport. It was the first time since 1933 that a horse wearing saddlecloth number six emerged victorious, a fact that added to the commemorative nature of the event. The victory also brought fame and recognition to his jockey, Mike Manganello, who expertly guided Dust Commander to success.

Following his Kentucky Derby win, Dust Commander went on to compete in the Preakness Stakes but finished fifth. Nevertheless, his victory in the Derby remains a crowning achievement in both his own career and the annals of horse racing. The colt’s legacy lives on, as he continued to enjoy a successful stud career after his racing days were over.

The 96th Kentucky Derby, with Mike Manganello on Dust Commander winning in 2:03.4, will always be remembered as a thrilling and unexpected triumph. It serves as a testament to the unpredictable nature of horse racing and the enduring spirit of both horse and jockey. This remarkable event stands as a reminder of the excitement and significance that the Kentucky Derby brings to the world of equine sports.