Kentucky Derby Horses Have Their Own Companion Ponies to Help Calm Them Down
On 4/30/21 at 11:53 AM EDT
Around 6:50 p.m. on May 1 the starting gates at Churchill Downs will fly open and 20 thoroughbred horses will tear down the track.
And for two minutes the hopes of the nation, as well as the reigns, will be in the jockeys' hands.
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But, while all eyes are firmly fixed on the 20 thoroughbreds taking part, there are other horses present on the day, and these unsung heroes play a vital role.
They are called companion ponies, and each racehorse will walk to the track with one by their side.