The term "Derby" primarily refers to a type of horse race, specifically a race for three-year-old Thoroughbred horses. The original Derby Stakes was inaugurated in 1780 at Epsom Downs Racecourse in England and named after Edward Smith-Stanley, the 12th Earl of Derby
. The most famous example in the United States is the Kentucky Derby, held annually at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, also restricted to three- year-old Thoroughbreds
. Derbies are traditionally races for three-year-olds, although there are exceptions such as the Hong Kong Derby and Singapore Derby for four-year-olds, and some harness racing derbies for older horses
. The Kentucky Derby, often called "The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports," is the first leg of the American Triple Crown and is one of the most prestigious horse races in the world
. In summary, the "Derby" race is a horse race, usually for three-year-old Thoroughbreds, with the Kentucky Derby being the most well-known example in the U.S.
