The 1974 Kentucky Derby was the 100th running of the Kentucky Derby. The race took place on May 4, 1974,[1][2] with 163,628 people in attendance.[3] The 1974 Kentucky Derby holds the title of the second largest crowd in the history of U.S. Thoroughbred racing. [4] The 1974 running featured the largest field size in Kentucky Derby History with 23 starters. [5]