Betting on the Kentucky Derby is always, well, a gamble. But can astrology help steer us in the right direction? We’re looking to the stars for some help in picking our race day bets.
When it comes to the Kentucky Derby, turning to Mars is the first step. Not only does this planet have jurisdiction over the horse and muscles, but it’s also associated with war, aggression and determination. Mars is naturally competitive and ambitious, calling those under its influence to act courageously and face new challenges head-on.
On May 1, Mars will be in Cancer. As a water sign, Cancer dampens the fire of Mars changing pure aggression into something more passive. This can create a moodiness causing those under its influence to become less direct in the pursuit of their goals.
For the horses racing in the Kentucky Derby, Mars in Cancer will have an unsettling effect. We anticipate that some of the horses that were more dominant in the past may waver from old habits, becoming unpredictable. Cancer, a nurturing sign will also keep the pack tight, leading to a neck-to-neck race with quickly changing leadership.
Could Jupiter Swing the Race?
Although Jupiter doesn’t directly govern the horse, it does oversee all strong, quick animals. During the derby, Jupiter will be located in Aquarius. This sign is ambitious in its own right but in a revolutionary way. Aquarius is a bit of a rebel and nonconformist, prompting us to expect the unexpected.
This adds support to the idea that this race will be unpredictable. With an undercurrent of revolution, this is a good year to bet on the underdog.
Our Ultimate Pick
When it comes to choosing a specific horse, we’re looking for one that signifies these changing tides. Of all the horses running, one, in particular, stands out – Rock Your World.
This horse represents everything we’ve seen in the stars. Rock Your World conveys a spirit of rebellion and change, an upset to conventional expectations. This horse’s placement of number 6 on the pre-race leaderboard also makes it somewhat of an underdog with 5:1 odds.
Your Equine Star Match
If you’re not looking to put all your eggs in one basket, we’ve also paired each contender to a zodiac sign. For an out-of-the-box pick, check out your horse below to see if you may get lucky!
ARIES (March 21 – April 19) – Highly Motivated
Number 11 on the pre-race leaderboard goes to the similarly “highly motivated” Aries. If anyone can pull out a win, it’s you!
TAURUS (April 20 – May 20) – Midnight Bourbon
Our pick for the sensual Taurus has a name that reminds us of sneaking out for a romantic moonlight drink. Currently ranked number 9, we think this horse stands a chance!
GEMINI (May 21 – June 20) – Dynamic One
For Gemini, we picked this half of a dynamic duo. Currently ranked at number 14, this underdog still has a chance to stand out from the pack!
CANCER (June 21 – July 22) – Sainthood
While you may not always be a saint, you’ve certainly done your fair share of good deeds. This horse may not rank at the head of the pack, but winning could score big time with odds of 50:1.
LEO (July 23 – Aug. 22) – Like the King
What else would better describe Leo? This strong pick (at #4 in the pre-race ranking) is a strong contender for the crown.
VIRGO (Aug. 23 – Sept. 22) – Essential Quality
Who doesn’t need a Virgo in their life? Your rational nature agrees with the bookies, this horse is currently ranked #1 in pre-race rankings.
LIBRA (Sept. 23 – Oct. 22) – Brooklyn Strong
Brooklyn Strong may be at the bottom of the pack in pre-race rankings, but Libra has always had a thing for an underdog.
SCORPIO (Oct. 23 – Nov. 21) – Hidden Stash
If anyone could keep a good horse a secret, it would be Scorpio. At number 16 in pre-race rankings, Hidden Stash sounds right up your alley.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22 – Dec. 21) – Medina Spirit
At number eight in pre-race rankings, this “spirit” just may have a chance to float to the top!
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22 – Jan. 19) – Known Agenda
Capricorn may like a sure thing but, coming in at number 5 on the pre-race leaderboard, Known Agenda has a fighting chance to top the list.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20 – Feb. 18) – Helium
Of all the competitors racing in the derby, Helium strikes a chord with innovative and rebellious Aquarius. But does he have what it takes to rise to the top?
PISCES (Feb. 19 – March 20) – Hot Rod Charlie
This horse is far from conventional. At number 2 on the pre-race leaderboard, this free spirit has a clear shot at victory.
