The 148th Kentucky Derby is speeding toward us, with post time set for 6:57 p.m. on Saturday, May 7.

An event burdened with that level of tradition by its very nature elicits a broad range of emotions.

How does America view our state on the one day each year that the first jewel of Thoroughbred racing’s Triple Crown thrusts the commonwealth into the national spotlight?

What does it mean to host a race that celebrates a sport still important to so many for their livelihoods? It helps stimulate our economy, propels our tourism and indulges a feel-good party for the masses.

How do we feel about hosting a race that celebrates a sport confronted by opponents at every turn? Those adversaries stand resolute in their opinions that there’s no place in the 21st century for an event they say is cruel to its animal participants and reeking of Old South regression.

Lexington Herald-Leader columnists John Clay and Linda Blackford explored these arguments by debating the question: Does the Kentucky Derby still matter?

Here is what each had to say in making the case for and against our state’s signature sporting event:

John Clay: ‘Greatest two minutes in sports’ a global icon

Linda Blackford: Until racing rights itself, it’s a tarnished flagship

Evidence supporting both sides is abundant when researching the Kentucky Derby from cultural, sports, national and local perspectives.

Our Ben Roberts looked at some of the Kentucky Derby’s greatest moments and some of its biggest black eyes since the turn of the century.

The Derby’s shining moments in the 21st century

The Derby’s darkest days since the year 2000

Brian Simms produced a series of interactive graphics appraising the sport’s popularity by detailing TV ratings, attendance history and wagering figures since 2000.

Roses or thorns? How fans and bettors view the Derby

As part of his inspection of the event, John Clay also addressed the turmoil surrounding six-time Kentucky Derby-winning trainer Bob Baffert, who is currently serving a two-year suspension from the Run for the Roses and Churchill Downs.

With Baffert out of the picture, who is the new face of horse racing?

And, finally, here’s your chance to weigh in with a vote on the subject at hand:

Poll: How much does the Kentucky Derby matter to you?

This story was originally published April 28, 2022 at 10:31 AM.