run for the roses English

Meaning run for the roses meaning

What does run for the roses mean?

run for the roses noun

— (usually, capitalized and preceded by the) The Kentucky Derby horse race.

— (idiomatic, American football) A college football game or series of games played with the ultimate goal of qualifying for the championship Rose Bowl game.

— (idiomatic, by extension) A hard-fought competition or demanding challenge of any kind.