Wait – did regular just win the Kentucky Derby?

This weekend in the two greatest moments in sports, Mage surged to victory at the Kentucky Derby with 15-1 odds. While Mage was by no means the favorite, the surprise win comes after last year’s massive Rich Strike upset (80-1) and marks a trend in the “underdogs” fairing well at the big race. 

Mage wins the Kentucky Derby!! 🏆#KyDerby pic.twitter.com/mNdxr9qa8N

— NBC Sports (@NBCSports) May 6, 2023

But what’s more interesting that Mage’s win is who owned the horse. Mage was owned by the app Commonwealth which allows users to invest (on a micro or macro) level in athletes for partial ownership in their success. The app is a partnership with a stable and is primarily focused on horses, however, golfers have now also joined the app and with this victory others may also get involved. 

HOW ABOUT THIS? 🥰@jose93_ortiz and Gerardo Corrales just rode in the Kentucky Derby, but still find time to help one of MAGE's owners enjoy the celebrations! 🌹#KYDerby pic.twitter.com/mMxb7Vbbsj

— World Horse Racing (@WHR) May 6, 2023

The mission of Commonwealth is in the name – they want everyday sports lovers (particularly horse racing lovers) to get the chance to be an owner. In an industry where stables are mainly owned and operated by the majorly wealthy, the idea that a horse could be owned by a collective of average enthusiasts is pretty revolutionary. 

Athletes are motivated to participate because where they may not have the traditional backing of mega firms and stables, the grassroots investment could mean the difference between being competitive and not being competitive. Additionally, some of the mega stables and athletic representation firms also wish to partner to help subsidize their overall operation. It’s a marriage of value. They are able to fund expansion and focus, and every day fans can participate monetarily in the sport they love. 

MAGE wins the @KentuckyDerby for @joincmnwlth and our partners. What a show.

To the 60 members that joined us @ChurchillDowns and the thousands of members across the country… this win is for all of Commonwealth Nation. pic.twitter.com/Sr2oHKO2Xd

— Brian Doxtator (@briandoxtator) May 7, 2023

The Kentucky Derby win for Commonwealth is the highest profile win they’ve had to-date. Those who had a $2,500 stake or more in Mage (nothing compared to the cost for most owners) had exclusive opportunities to interact with the horse and jockey and to be treated like the 25% stake owners they were. So not only did they share in the financial winnings, but they got to truly be part of the experience. 

The 300+ Commonwealth app owners of Mage own 25 percent of the horse.

Those who bought 50+ shares ($2,500) get morning workout and paddock privileges, winner’s circle access and opportunity to meet horse and jockey. pic.twitter.com/IzA29HKixN

— Darren Rovell (@darrenrovell) May 6, 2023

Commonwealth’s win is a boon to their own app and idea but also to all the hobby investing groups like Robinhood who have been making trading and investing more accessible and passion driven for every day Americans.