Will Steve Asmussen Finally Capture Kentucky Derby Glory?
Steve Asmussen stands as one of the most recognized names in horse racing. Despite an astonishing career filled with triumphs, racing fans still ask: Will Steve Asmussen finally win the Kentucky Derby? In 2025, with another strong group of contenders, anticipation runs higher than ever.
Steve Asmussen: A Record-Breaking Career
Steve Asmussen is known for breaking records and training champions. With over 10,800 career victories, Asmussen is North America’s winningest Thoroughbred trainer [WLKY: Can trainer Steve Asmussen get his first Kentucky Derby winner?]. His expertise developed horses like Curlin and Gun Runner, both of which became Horses of the Year under his guidance.
Yet, for all Asmussen’s accomplishments—including victories in the Preakness Stakes and numerous Breeders’ Cup races—the Kentucky Derby remains elusive.
Heartbreaks and Near Misses at the Derby
Asmussen’s Kentucky Derby journey is filled with dramatic moments and close finishes. He has entered 26 horses in the Derby, finishing second three times and third twice. Notable near-misses include Epicenter in 2022, Lookin at Lee in 2017, and Nehro in 2011. Each was a contender to win but fell short in the race’s final moments.
"The Derby has eluded me," Asmussen admits. He remains pragmatic yet ever hopeful, knowing that racing's uncertainties can rewrite destinies in seconds. Horses like Curlin and Gun Runner went on to dominate in later races, a testament to his training skill [WLKY: Can trainer Steve Asmussen get his first Kentucky Derby winner?].
2025 Kentucky Derby: Tiztastic and Publisher Take Their Shot
This year, Steve Asmussen brings fresh prospects to Churchill Downs. Tiztastic enters the 151st Kentucky Derby after claiming victory in the Louisiana Derby. As a son of Tiz the Law, Tiztastic has shown endurance and closing speed. Meanwhile, Publisher, though still a maiden, holds promise as a late bloomer. Asmussen hopes both horses can shine on racing’s grandest stage.
Analysts see Tiztastic as a dark horse contender. The colt’s running style—coming from behind—fits the expected fast early pace of the race. However, Tiztastic will need to overcome past defeats to other top contenders [CBSSports: Tiztastic profile, 2025 Kentucky Derby odds].
The Importance of Post Positions in the Kentucky Derby
In a race with so many variables, the post position draw can impact a horse’s Derby chances. In 2025, 20 horses vie for position across Churchill Downs’ legendary starting gate. Historically, posts 5 and 20 have produced the most winners. However, luck and a clean trip matter as much as statistics. To see a full breakdown of Derby post position history, visit this detailed chart by The Courier Journal [Kentucky Derby post position win percentage, history].
What Sets Asmussen Apart
Persistence and passion define Steve Asmussen’s approach. Despite disappointment, he continues to turn out top-caliber horses—many achieving greatness after their Derby attempts. Asmussen’s straightforward philosophy is clear: "I am disappointed that I have never won the Derby, but I am freakishly proud of what we have done with these horses after the Derby. My time will come."[WLKY: Can trainer Steve Asmussen get his first Kentucky Derby winner?]
Conclusion: Is This the Year?
Steve Asmussen’s Kentucky Derby pursuit is a story of resilience. With Tiztastic and Publisher in the 2025 lineup, fans everywhere hope to see him finally clinch the most coveted prize in American horse racing. Whether this is the year or not, one thing is certain: Steve Asmussen’s legacy grows with every chapter.
For more on the horses running in this year’s race, explore 2025 Kentucky Derby odds and horse profiles, or learn about the significance of Derby post positions here.