Five 2012 Kentucky Derby Week Four Updates

Are you excited about the 2012 Kentucky Derby and are worried that this will finally be the year that it gets cancelled? Fortunately, in the 137 Kentucky Derby events of the past, it has never been cancelled.

Regardless, a horse racing fan still needs the opportunity to review minor details, deadlines, and visual changes. So far, a month before the race begins, there are five updates that show the 2012 Kentucky Derby is starting off with only a couple of hitches.

1. No tulips for the 2012 Kentucky Derby

For the Kentucky Oaks event the day before the Kentucky Derby, it is referred to as the running of the 'fillies for the lilies." This complements the Kentucky Derby's 'run for the roses.' Each major horse race has their own signature flower, but those that attend the big race at Churchill Downs this year will be in for a flower-related disappointment.

Due to the early spring weather in Louisville, Kent., the tulips will not be in bloom during the 2012 event. According to the track horticulturalist, over 2,000 flowers will replace the tulips. Regardless, it appears that the roses used to decorate the landscapes around Churchill Downs will be photo-ready.

2. Prize for Kentucky Derby 138 arrives

The Kentucky Derby can officially commence now that the 2012 trophy has arrived at Churchill Downs. According to WLKY.com, in addition to the 22-inch tall 14-karat-gold trophy, a sterling silver replica is given to the trainer, the jockey, and the owner. The Louisville Courier Journal states that, "The trophy is created [each year] by New England Sterling of Attleboro, Mass. … since 1975."

3. Union Rags no longer a favorite

So far, Kentucky Derby handicappers have been listing Union Rags as the potential winner of the 2012 race. However, after the performance of this horse at the Florida Derby, Union Rags has fallen out of favor for the number one position. This means that speculation of top contenders is now pending the conclusion of the upcoming Wood Memorial, Santa Anita Derby, and Illinois Derby.

4. 'True Colors' to be found at 2012 Pegasus Parade

Two days before the race, the official Kentucky Derby Festival's Pegasus Parade will be a time of brightly-colored jockey uniforms. This year, the event will be led by one of the queens of the rainbow. The big celebrity news that has locals in Louisville excited is the appearance of Cyndi Lauper.

According to WDRB, she will be taking a break from filming her reality TV show for WEtv to show her 'True Colors' while leading this key Derby event.

5. Future Wagers pool now closed

The feat of predicting the outcome of the Kentucky Derby is taken seriously by fans long before the race begins. Sadly, predictions for who will win the 2012 Kentucky Derby have changed. This shift may affect the outcome of the 2012 Kentucky Derby Future Wager Pool. It officially closed on April 1 and included Union Rags at 9-2. Altogether, the three pools collected almost $1.5 million.

More from this Contributor:

Weird Kentucky Derby Before the Derby: Fan's View

Best 2012 Kentucky Derby Collectibles: Fan's Review

Where Are Celebrities at the 2012 Kentucky Derby?

Weird Foreign Kentucky Derby Horse Name Meanings

Top Pick Experts for the Kentucky Derby: Fan's View

Maryam Louise is a longtime resident of the Bluegrass State and has lived in the shadows of Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky over the past two decades. In addition to being a fan of horse racing, she has also had a chance to get to know jockeys, horse groomers, and betting clerks as an ESL instructor. Currently, she writes for KentuckyDerby.org and relies on her friends in the multiple facets of the equine industry for writing inspiration.

Note: This article was written by a Yahoo! contributor. Sign up here to start publishing your own sports content.