"The Kentucky Derby is also known as the "Run for the Roses". Here's a little history on how roses have become such a large part of the greatest two minutes in sports.
Roses were first established as part of the Derby celebration when they were presented to all the ladies attending a fashionable Louisville Derby party.
In 1904 the red rose became the official flower of the Kentucky Derby.
In 1925, New York sports columnist Bill Corum, later the president of Churchill Downs, dubbed the Kentucky Derby the "Run for the Roses."
In 1932, the garland as it exists today was first introduced for the 58th running won by Burgoo King.
66 days until the 139th running of the Kentucky Derby."