The 2011 Kentucky Derby gave us the show that everyone hoped for. After weeks of speculation and lots of anxious bets made, the trip went without incident and the finish not in doubt as Animal Kingdom pulled away down the stretch for the win with Nehro in second and Mucho Macho Man in third and Shackleford fourth.
There were nervous moments going into the start with Archarcharch on the rail and Watch Me Go on the outside position and all the horses in between. But within just a matter of minutes it was over the the 2011 Kentucky Derby winner was being decked in roses.
Soldat had a great start but it was Shackleford with the early lead at first turn and for most of the race. But Shackleford couldn't hold on and Animal Kingdom was able to break from the pack and win. Favorite Dialed In trailed most of the race and wasn't able to make any kind of late push beyond the eight spot.
Animal Kingdom was at 20/1 odds before the race.