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Kentucky Derby Odds Master Retires After 5 Decades
5 Apr
Summary
- Mike Battaglia set odds for every Kentucky Derby since 1974.
- He correctly identified the Derby favorite 76.5% of the time.
- Nick Tammaro will succeed Battaglia as the new odds maker.
Mike Battaglia, the renowned oddsmaker for the Kentucky Derby since 1974, is retiring ahead of the upcoming 152nd edition. Over his extensive career, Battaglia demonstrated remarkable foresight, correctly identifying the Kentucky Derby favorite in 39 out of 51 runnings, achieving a success rate of 76.5%. His contributions to Churchill Downs also extended to his roles as track announcer and simulcast host.
Battaglia expressed gratitude for his time at Churchill Downs, stating it was the right moment to step down. The track has appointed Nick Tammaro to continue the legacy of setting the morning-line odds. Tammaro brings a wealth of experience from various industry positions, including morning-line oddsmaker at Keeneland and track announcer at Sam Houston. He views his new role as an honor and aims to uphold the standard set by Battaglia.
