The first weekend of February marks a significant period for North American horse racing enthusiasts, with three major qualifying events for the prestigious Kentucky Derby. These races—held on Saturday, February 1st—are spread across Aqueduct, Gulfstream Park, and Santa Anita Park. Fans can catch live coverage of these thrilling events through various platforms including FanDuel TV, Fox Sports channels, and Racetrack Television Network (RTN). The excitement begins earlier in the week with “America’s Day at the Races,” which offers comprehensive coverage from multiple tracks. This article provides an overview of the key races and detailed broadcast schedules.

Three Major Stakes Races to Watch on February 1st

In the crisp winter air of early February, the equestrian world turns its attention to three pivotal stakes races that serve as qualifiers for the Kentucky Derby. The Withers Stakes takes place at Aqueduct Race Track, while the Holy Bull Stakes unfolds at Gulfstream Park in Florida, and the Robert B. Lewis Stakes is hosted by Santa Anita Park in California. Each race promises not only high-stakes competition but also showcases promising young talent vying for crucial points towards their Derby dreams.

FanDuel TV will broadcast live coverage of the Holy Bull Stakes and Robert B. Lewis Stakes, along with other races from Gulfstream and Santa Anita. Meanwhile, NYRA’s “America’s Day at the Races” will feature the Withers Stakes alongside live racing from Aqueduct and Oaklawn Park. The show runs from January 30th through February 2nd on FOX Sports channels. For those seeking more extensive coverage, RTN offers live streaming services available on various devices and select TV providers.

TV and Radio Schedules

Television:

• January 30th and 31st: “America’s Day at the Races” airs from 2:30 PM to 6 PM on FS2.
• February 1st: Coverage shifts to FS1 from noon to 2 PM, followed by FS2 until 4:50 PM, featuring the Withers Stakes.
• February 2nd: “America’s Day at the Races” returns to FS2 from 3 PM to 6 PM.

Radio:

• Thoroughbred Radio Network hosts “At The Races with Steve Byk” at 9 AM on both January 30th and 31st.
• HRRN presents the “Brisnet Call-In Show” at 6 PM on January 30th and the “AmWager Weekend Stakes Preview” at the same time on January 31st.
• ESPN 680/105.7 features the “Kentucky Racing Spotlight with Louie Rabaut” on January 31st at 6 PM.
• The “Equine Forum Presented by TwinSpires” airs on HRRN at 8 AM on February 1st.

From a journalist's perspective, this lineup underscores the growing importance of digital platforms in expanding the reach of horse racing. As traditional media evolves, fans now have unprecedented access to live events, enriching the experience for both seasoned bettors and casual observers alike. The integration of technology has not only enhanced viewer engagement but also fostered a deeper appreciation for the sport’s rich traditions and competitive spirit.