Toby Keith's Legacy Lives On: Render Judgment Runs in Kentucky Derby 2025

As thousands gather beneath the twin spires of Churchill Downs for the 151st Kentucky Derby, one entry is stirring more than just betting slips—it's telling the story of a dream that outlasted the man who chased it.

Render Judgment, a colt from the late Toby Keith’s Dream Walkin’ Farms, will compete in this year’s Derby. Though Keith passed away earlier this year, those who knew him say he would have been right there in the stands. Now, his legacy rides in the silks of a horse born from his vision.

Render Judgment: Road to Churchill Downs

Render Judgment wasn’t always a sure bet for the Kentucky Derby. The bay colt—powerful, lean, and still earning his reputation—clinched a coveted spot in the 20-horse field only after Tappan Street was forced to withdraw due to injury. It was a late shake-up in the lineup, but it was a long-awaited moment of triumph for Toby Keith’s Dream Walkin’ Farms.

Trained by seasoned horseman Kenny McPeek and ridden by veteran jockey Julien Leparoux, Render Judgment enters the race with 30-1 odds and will break from post position 15. On paper, he’s a long shot. But his presence on the track is about more than numbers.

Dream Walkin' Farms: Toby Keith’s Racing Vision

In 2001, at the height of his music career, Toby Kieth founded Dream Walkin’ Farms. Named after one of his hit songs.

Keith wasn’t just a celebrity with a stable; he was hands-on and deeply involved in his horses' selection, breeding, and development. He attended auctions, studied bloodlines, and spent time with his animals.

Over the years, the farm notched multiple wins across U.S. circuits, including at Oaklawn and Santa Anita, and earned millions in purse money. Still, the Kentucky Derby remained Keith’s ultimate goal.

Render Judgment’s entry into the 2025 Kentucky Derby is more than just a racing achievement; it’s the realization of Keith’s long-held goal, arriving just months after his passing. For his family, his team, and fans who followed his music and his horses, the moment is bittersweet— filled with pride, remembrance, and the spirit of a dream come full circle.

Family and Team Reflect on Keith’s Derby Dream

Keith's daughter, Krystal, expressed her emotions on social media, stating,

"Toby will have the best seat in the house to watch."

Trainer Kenny McPeek, who took over training duties for Render Judgment, acknowledged just how personal this race has become.

“This isn’t just another Derby horse,” McPeek told reporters. “This one carries meaning. We all feel like we’re doing something bigger than just competing— we’re carrying on a legacy.”

2025 Kentucky Derby Odds: Where Render Judgment Stands

Render Judgment goes into the Derby with 30-1 morning line odds, placing him among the second-tier long shots alongside contenders like Just a Touch and Society Man. He’ll break from post position 15, a mid-gate slot that offers tactical flexibility depending on the break and early pace.

With over 2,000 career wins and five prior Derby starters, Trainer Kenny McPeek will be looking for his first win in the Run for the Roses. Jockey Julien Leparoux makes his 14th Derby appearance and has finished in the money but never captured the title.

Historically, six horses with odds of 30-1 or longer have won the Derby since 2000, most notably Rich Strike at 80-1 in 2022. While an upset is unlikely, it’s far from unprecedented.

Dream Walkin’ Farms stands out as an independent operation in a field dominated by powerhouse syndicates and elite bloodlines. And a strong showing by Render Judgment would mark a meaningful accomplishment.

Carrying the Dream: Toby Keith's Legacy at Churchill Downs

Toby Keith may be best known for his chart-topping hits and unmistakable voice, but his passion for horse racing ran just as deep. His vision for Dream Walkin’ Farms and his long-held hope of reaching the Derby culminates this week in Louisville.

Render Judgment won’t be the odds-on favorite. He may not cross the finish line first. But his presence is a powerful statement: Toby Keith’s legacy lives far beyond the stage.