Whatever your plans are this year for Derby, it'll serve you well to stay in the loop on the greatest two minutes in sports. As if following us isn't enough, here are 10 Twitter accounts that will keep you up to date on all the latest racing action, and maybe -just maybe- help you pick a winner.
1. J.J. Hysell, a sports journalist based here in the 'Ville, runs a blog dedicated to covering the pursuit of the Triple Crown. Having correctly picked the Derby trifecta in 2011, as well as the exacta and the winning five-horse superfecta in 2013, it's a safe bet to say Hysell knows a thing or two about beating the odds.
2. Turf writer Claire Novak is the online features editor for Blood-Horse Publications in Lexington. She also provides analysis of selected races from around the country as the host of That Handicapping Show.
3. Brian Zipse's life long passion for racing means he's seen all the greats (even that little known horse Secretariat). Zipse is also Managing Editor of Horse Racing Nation and runs the popular blog Zipse at the Track.
4. "Fanalyst" Melissa Nolan offers a unique perspective on the track for those of us who fancy ourselves as Derby amateurs.
5. VP of Racing Communications for Churchill Downs, and long time journalist, John Asher is well versed in all things Derby.
6. Born and raised in the Thoroughbred horse industry, Chip McGaughey gained experience in racing through his father, Hall of Fame trainer C.R. "Shug." McGaughey has an impressive knowledge of all aspects of the racing world—from the backside to handicapping.
7. Freelance turf writer Jessie Oswald often provides race analysis, handicapping and race recaps. Chances are you'll find her feed more than informative.
8. After having worked for seven years as a handicapper for the Baltimore Sun, Marty McGee (brother of trainer Paul McGee) currently covers Churchill Downs for the Daily Racing Form.
9. Because it's hard not to laugh at this parody account of famed Thoroughbred horse trainer Todd Pletcher.
10. If you're not that into racing, give Louisville Humor a follow. Few can capture the madness of the Derby city quite so well.
Know of any other Twitter accounts to follow for Derby? Leave them in the comments!
Photo courtesy of the Kentucky Derby's Facebook page.
