The Best Photos from the 143rd Kentucky Derby

Sports Illustrated contributing photographer Laura Heald captured the spectacular win by Always Dreaming and the rest of the action from the 143rd Kentucky Derby. Below is a selection of the best Derby moments from this year's event.

The Best Photos from the 143rd Kentucky Derby

John Velazquez

John Velazquez rides Always Dreaming.

John Velazquez

John Velazquez rides Always Dreaming on the first pass of the Kentucky Derby.

John Velazquez

John Velazquez atop Always Dreaming after victory.

143rd Kentucky Derby

Always Dreaming

John Velazquez rides #5, Always Dreaming in the 143rd Kentucky Derby.

John Velazquez

John Velazquez with Always Dreaming in the winner's circle after winning the 143rd Kentucky Derby.

Vinny Viola

Vinny Viola, owner of Always Dreaming, stands with the Kentucky Derby trophy after Always Dreaming wins the 143rd Kentucky Derby.

First Pass

Horses take off during the first pass of the 143rd Kentucky Derby.

John Velazquez

John Velazquez rides Always Dreaming.

John Velazquez

John Velazquez rides Always Dreaming.

John Velazquez

John Velazquez rides Always Dreaming, as second place finisher Corey J. Lanerie atop Lookin at Lee trails behind.

Todd Pletcher

Always Dreaming trainer, Todd Pletcher.