As the 2025 horse racing season intensifies and fans gear up for the final rounds of the Kentucky Derby Prep Races, Oaklawn Park plays host to one of the premier events for older fillies and mares: the $1.25 million Apple Blossom Handicap (G1). 

As the Road to Churchill Downs narrows, the $400,000 Lexington Stakes (G3) on April 12 at Keeneland offers a final chance for 2025 Kentucky Derby hopefuls to earn qualifying points. With no runners currently ranked within the top 32 of the leaderboard, this 1 1/16-mile contest still holds significant implications for late-blooming colts and savvy Kentucky Derby betting strategies.

The NCAA championship final could not have been more exciting. The Florida Gators, with an epic comeback, managed to overcome Houston 65-63 to secure their third national title in history, the first since the Billy Donovan era in 2007.

While Kentucky Derby Prep Races grab most of the spotlight this spring, the $400,000 Shakertown Stakes (G2T) at Keeneland on April 8 offers turf sprinters their moment in the sun.

While fans and bettors focus on Kentucky Derby Prep Races leading up to the Run for the Roses, Tuesday’s $500,000 Appalachian Stakes (G2T) at Keeneland brings its share of star power.