Betting on the Kentucky Derby and Oaks starts on Tuesday

Churchill Downs is opening the pari-mutuel wagering pools for the Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks on Tuesday, so those who suffer from the crippling anxiety of being left out of both races can relax.

In the past, on Thursday of Kentucky Derby week, Churchill has launched betting for its two main races and the special two-day Oaks-Derby Double wager. However, this year, it has taken action to open betting for those pools on Tuesday.

"Opening the pools earlier for the most anticipated races on the calendar helps build even more excitement for the greatest two minutes in sports," Churchill Downs Inc. vice president of racing Gary Palmisano Jr. said. "One of the benefits to moving the draw up to Saturday was having the tote system prepared to offer this early wagering opportunity."

The also-eligible horses in each race will be open for betting since gambling on these races will be accessible prior to the scratch time of 9 a.m. EDT on Friday. All horse wagers will be subject to standard scratch rules, which allow you to withdraw your money or get a refund as soon as the main field is declared.