What is the significance of the Kentucky Derby in horse racing?

The Kentucky Derby holds a prestigious place in horse racing as it is indeed the first of the Triple Crown races. This annual event, often referred to as "The Run for the Roses," takes place on the first Saturday in May and marks the beginning of a series of three major horse racing events in the United States, culminating in the Preakness Stakes and the Belmont Stakes. Winning the Kentucky Derby is considered a significant achievement for any thoroughbred horse, and it is a widely celebrated event in the racing community, drawing attention from both fans and participants around the world. The Derby not only represents the start of the Triple Crown but also symbolizes the rich tradition and history of horse racing in America. Other options presented do not accurately reflect the significance of the Kentucky Derby in the context of horse racing.