DERBY WEEK: Belle of Louisville wins 57th annual Great Steamboat Race

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WTVQ)- The Belle of Louisville has reclaimed the silver antlers, winning the 57th annual Great Steamboat Race presented by IBEW Local 369.

The race is a highlight of derby week. Every year, weather permitting, the Belle of Louisville competes against the Belle of Cincinnati for the antlers.

“It was a great race,” said Mike Berry, Kentucky Derby Festival President & CEO. “The Belle of Louisville takes back the title for the first time since 2015. No collusion and no debate from the judges.”

The Belle of Louisville has won 28 times since 1963.

The race follows a 14-mile course on the Ohio River.

The winner has to earn points by performing five tasks on land and on the boat throughout the day, including paddle-wheel assembly and a knot-tying contest.