How Much Money Will Mystic Dan Jockey and Trainer Take Home? Breaking Down $5 Million 2024 Kentucky Derby Purse

Mystik Dan’s triumph in the 150th Kentucky Derby stands out as a nail-biting spectacle, marked by a three-horse photo finish. Under the guidance of jockey Brian Hernandez Jr., the bay colt clinched victory by the slimmest of margins, outpacing Sierra Leone and Forever Young. Despite entering the race with odds of 18-1, Mystik Dan and Hernandez strategically maintained the lead as their rivals pushed relentlessly forward.

For Hernandez, the suspenseful moments awaiting the verdict felt like an eternity, but the jubilation of victory quickly washed over the crowd. Prior to the Derby, Mystik Dan had amassed career earnings of $550,050. With this year’s Kentucky Derby boasting a prize purse of $5 million, the spotlight now shifts to the lucrative question: how much of that prize money will find its way into Mystik Dan’s coffers, further solidifying his place in racing lore.

Kenny McPeek, Mystik Dan’s trainer, etched his name in the annals of racing history by achieving a rare feat: winning both the Kentucky Oaks and the Kentucky Derby in the same year (2024). Thorpedo Anna‘s victory in the Kentucky Oaks on Friday (4th May) set the stage for Mystik Dan’s remarkable triumph at Churchill Downs. McPeek became only the fourth trainer since 1952 to accomplish this remarkable double victory.

For Mystik Dan, the 2024 Kentucky Derby marks another milestone in a year already filled with success. His previous win at the 2024 Southwest Stakes (Grade 3) showcased his prowess earlier in the season. Guided by jockey Brian Hernandez, Dan’s victory in the Derby not only secured his place in racing history but also earned him the winner’s share of the purse: a substantial $3.1 million!

In the aftermath of the Derby, the distribution of winnings sheds light on the financial rewards of success in the sport. While Mystik Dan’s jockey, Brian Hernandez Jr., will pocket 10% of the $3.1 million (1st place), amounting to $500,000, Sierra Leone and Forever Young, securing second and third place, respectively, will claim their own portions of the prize pool: $1 million and $500,000 respectively. But seems Mystik Dan, a 3-year-old colt, is ready to add more to his purse.

Charting Mystik Dan’s next move

Lance Gasaway and Daniel Hamby, along with the 4G Racing team, are the proprietors of Mystik Dan, an up-and-coming sensation in the realm of horse racing. Following a triumph at the Kentucky Derby, Mystik, Dan is now preparing for the Preakness, another event. Certain horses that underperformed in the Derby may opt out of the Preakness, creating opportunities for contenders to showcase their talent.

The Belmont Stakes marks the completion of the Triple Crown series following the Preakness. Mystik Dans’ unexpected victory at the Derby has cast doubts on his prospects for the Preakness. His past performances and public perception will play a role in shaping his chances in the races.