Rain fell heavily on Tuesday nearly the entire day, which continued
throughout the night and nearly half the day Wednesday, May 14, which made
the track a sea of mud and water. Notwithstanding the unfavorable weather
and muddy condition of the track the attendance was extremely large, fully
up to any preceding day. The Derby was the third race, for which a half
dozen put in an appearance. Robespierre was the favorite, even against the
field, but he was beaten by Riley and Bill Letcher.
Bill Letcher led off, Outlook second, Palisade third, other three bunched.
No change at the three-quarters, but passing the stand Robespierre and
Riley were head and head, Outlook third. Going round the turn Robespierre
drew clear and led at the quarter with Outlook second, Riley third, Bill
Letcher fourth. Before reaching the half Riley was in front, Robespierre
second, Bill Letcher third, the race lay between the two. No change at the
head of the stretch, Riley leading and running easy, Robespierre driving
and Bill Letcher gaining. Riley won handily by a length and a half, Bill
Letcher second and a length in front of Robespierre third, Palisade
fourth, Prince Fonso, fifth, Outlook sixth. First mile 1:47, the race
2:45. Value to winner, $5,460.