Greatest Kentucky Derby Winners of All Time
Affirmed or Whirlaway
Pick Your Favorite
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Why This Battle Matters
Who really deserves to be the emblem of equine excellence? In the galloping duel between Whirlaway and Affirmed, we find more than just a race—it's a sprint through history itself. Whirlaway, with his dramatic flair and wide-margin triumphs, brought an almost theatrical style to the track, while Affirmed's calculated and resilient victories in the late '70s redefined what it meant to dominate. This battle isn't just for bragging rights; it's about defining the legacy and essence of greatness in horse racing. Which champion's story resonates more with the spirit of today's fans? Is it the romantic allure of Whirlaway's era or the gritty determination of Affirmed's reign?
🔥 Fan Takes
How Fans Are Voting
In this battle:
Fans currently prefer Affirmed over Whirlaway when it comes to the greatest Kentucky Derby Winners of all time. In head-to-head matchups, fans pick Affirmed 80.0% of the time over Whirlaway.
Across all battles:
Affirmed win rate: 35.6%
Whirlaway win rate: 28.0%
Fan FAQs
Who's currently topping the list of the Greatest Kentucky Derby Winners of All Time?
The top contender right now is Secretariat, known for setting records that still stand today. Check out who's leading on the GOAT List!
What makes Whirlaway so popular among horse racing enthusiasts?
Fans adore Whirlaway for his dramatic racing style and the iconic 'Mr. Longtail' nickname, stemming from his unusually long tail. His 1941 Triple Crown win, especially with that 8-length victory at Belmont, left a lasting impression of dominance and flair.
Why is Affirmed leading by so much in the fan votes against Whirlaway?
Affirmed fans really rally around his 1978 Triple Crown win, often highlighting his intense battles with Alydar as testament to his legendary status and resilience. This emotional connection and the rarity of his accomplishment makes a big impact in fan voting.