Every year, the first Saturday in May marks the start of something special—the Kentucky Derby. For die-hard horse racing fans, it's the middle of the season. But for the rest of us, it's a rare moment when the sport captures our full attention. Unless, of course, one horse has a shot at the Triple Crown. Then, everyone tunes in.

On May 5, 1973, Secretariat began his legendary quest for greatness. He won the Kentucky Derby in a record-breaking time of 1:59.4—a mark that still stands today. Widely regarded as the greatest racehorse of all time, "Big Red" went on to claim the Preakness Stakes and the Belmont Stakes, securing the Triple Crown in unforgettable fashion.

Since then, only 14 horses have achieved the Triple Crown, and just four have done it after Secretariat. The chase is what makes it so thrilling: once a 3-year-old wins the Derby at Churchill Downs, the dream is alive for the Preakness at Pimlico and the Belmont Stakes in New York. But if the Derby winner falters, interest often fades fast.

Secretariat's legacy endures through films, memorabilia, and the hearts of fans. He retired to stud in 1974 and passed away at age 19 in 1989, but his records and reputation remain untouched.

This year, all eyes are on Sovereignty, who outdueled favorite Journalism in the slop to win the 151st Derby. The results took a few minutes to become official, as stewards reviewed a crowded start and a photo finish for second place. Last year, Mystik Dan delivered a dramatic three-horse photo finish, winning by a nose—the closest margin in Derby history.

And don't forget: a Utah-trained filly named Where's My Ring competed in the Kentucky Oaks the day before, adding a local touch to the weekend's excitement.

Whether Sovereignty becomes the next Triple Crown champion or fades into memory, the dream is alive for a few more weeks. And that's what makes the chase so captivating.