Racing Toward the Kentucky Derby

Do you need a reason to mix a pitcher of Mint Juleps, put on a big floppy hat and watch the Kentucky Derby next month? For most of us, the answer is no, but if you really need an excuse, know that downing all that booze and cheering on the races means supporting Prime Inc. owner Robert Low. That’s because a horse owned by Low and his wife, Lawana, has a very good chance of being in this year’s Run for the Roses. 

Here’s the backstory: The horse, Magnum Moon, is generating lots of Kentucky Derby buzz. On St. Patrick’s Day, Magnum Moon won the Rebel Stakes at Woodlawn Park in Hot Springs by three lengths, remaining undefeated and becoming the horse to beat in this Saturday’s $1 million Arkansas Derby. The Todd Pletcher–trained colt has been established as the 8-5 favorite in a nine-horse field. 

Winning the Arkansas Derby would make Magnum Moon the second derby contender in a dozen years for the Lows. The Springfield couple enjoyed what they thought was a once-in-a-lifetime experience in 2006 when their gray longshot Steppenwolfer finished third in the Kentucky Derby. Whether Magnum Moon makes it as far as Steppenwolfer, his sudden fame gives you a good reason to shoot for the moon at the betting pool—or at the very least, gives your derby day celebrations a little local equine excitement.