Derby by the Speed Numbers
From thedowneyprofile.com: In 53 of the last 57 runnings of the Kentucky Derby, the winner was either on the lead with an eighth of a mile to go in the race, within a length of the lead, or running second although more than a length off the leader. In all, 42 of the last 57 winners, or 74%, were on the lead at the eighth pole.
In 2011, Animal Kingdom didn't make this stat, but he was about as close as you can get -- third by by 1 1/2 length at the eighth pole. In 2010, Super Saver was two lengths the best at the final furlong marker. Mine That Bird was one length ahead at the eighth pole in 2009. Big Brown, the 2008 Derby winner, was 2 1/2 lengths ahead. In 2007, Street Sense was up by a length, and in 2006, Barbaro was four lengths in front. The 2005 winner, Giacomo, was an exception to the rule. He was in sixth place at the eighth pole--and almost three lengths off the lead held by Closing Argument during that brief moment.
http://www.thedowneyprofile.com/More_Racing_News/2012/04/30/derby-by-the-speed-numbers.395229