The Preakness Stakes, the second jewel of the American Triple Crown, is one of the most prestigious and highly anticipated horse racing events in the world. As the middle leg of the Triple Crown, it attracts a talented field of three-year-old Thoroughbreds, all vying for a chance to make history. One of the most pressing questions on the minds of horse racing enthusiasts and casual fans alike is: how many horses usually run in the Preakness?
Understanding the Field Size of the Preakness
The number of horses that participate in the Preakness Stakes can vary from year to year, but there are certain factors that influence the field size. In this article, we will delve into the history of the Preakness, explore the typical field size, and examine the factors that affect the number of horses that run in this iconic race.
A Brief History of the Preakness and Its Field Size
The Preakness Stakes has a rich history, dating back to 1873. Over the years, the race has undergone several changes, including the number of horses that participate. In the early years, the field size was often small, with as few as four horses competing. However, as the race gained popularity and prestige, the field size began to grow.
In modern times, the Preakness typically attracts a field of 8-14 horses. This range allows for a competitive and exciting race, while also ensuring that each horse has a fair chance of winning. But what factors contribute to the final field size? Let’s take a closer look.
The Preakness Stakes: A Prestigious Horse Racing Event
The Preakness Stakes is the second leg of the American Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing, one of the most prestigious horse racing events in the world. Held annually at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Maryland, the Preakness Stakes attracts top-class horses, jockeys, and trainers from around the globe. One of the most frequently asked questions about the Preakness Stakes is how many horses usually run in the race.
A Brief History of the Preakness Stakes
The Preakness Stakes was first run in 1873, and it has been held every year since then, with the exception of 1891-1893 and 1895. The race was named after the colt Preakness, who won the Dinner Party Stakes at Pimlico in 1870. The Preakness Stakes was initially run at a distance of 1 1/2 miles, but it was shortened to 1 3/16 miles in 1925, and it has remained at that distance ever since.
The Typical Field Size of the Preakness Stakes
The typical field size of the Preakness Stakes is 8-14 horses. However, the race can accommodate up to 14 starters, and the field size can vary from year to year. The smallest field in Preakness history was in 1905, when only four horses started. On the other hand, the largest field was in 1992, when 14 horses competed.
Factors Affecting Field Size
Several factors can affect the field size of the Preakness Stakes. One of the main factors is the quality of the horses that are nominated for the race. If there are many high-quality horses nominated, the field size is likely to be larger. Another factor is the weather conditions on the day of the race. If the weather is bad, some owners and trainers may decide not to run their horses. (See Also: How Much Are Horses?)
Additionally, the Preakness Stakes is a graded stakes race, which means that it is open to horses that meet certain eligibility criteria. The race is restricted to 3-year-old horses that were nominated to the Triple Crown series by the January 26 nomination deadline. Horses that were not nominated by the deadline can still be supplemented to the race for a fee.
The Draw and Post Position
The draw for the Preakness Stakes typically takes place on the Wednesday before the race. During the draw, the post positions for the horses are randomly assigned. The post position can be an important factor in the race, as it can affect a horse’s chances of winning.
In general, horses that draw post positions closer to the rail (posts 1-4) have an advantage, as they can get a better start and save ground on the turns. Horses that draw post positions farther out (posts 5-14) may have to navigate through traffic and cover more ground, which can be a disadvantage.
Post Position Statistics
According to statistics, horses that draw post positions 1-4 have a higher winning percentage than horses that draw post positions 5-14. Since 1900, horses that drew post position 1 have won the Preakness Stakes 24 times, while horses that drew post position 2 have won 21 times.
The following table shows the winning percentage of horses by post position in the Preakness Stakes since 1900:
| Post Position | Winning Percentage |
|---|---|
| 1 | 24% |
| 2 | 21% |
| 3 | 17% |
| 4 | 15% |
| 5-14 | 23% |
The Impact of Field Size on the Race
The field size of the Preakness Stakes can have a significant impact on the race. A larger field size can lead to a more competitive race, with more horses in contention for the win. On the other hand, a smaller field size can make the race less competitive, with fewer horses in contention.
A larger field size can also increase the chances of traffic problems during the race, which can affect the outcome. Horses may get blocked or bumped, which can cost them valuable ground and momentum.
Examples of Competitive Preakness Fields
There have been several instances of highly competitive Preakness fields in recent years. For example, in 2018, the Preakness Stakes had a field of 8 horses, including the Kentucky Derby winner, Justify, and several other top-class horses. The race was highly competitive, with several horses in contention for the win until the final stretch. (See Also: How Fast Do Horses Run In Races)
In 2019, the Preakness Stakes had a field of 13 horses, including several horses that had run in the Kentucky Derby. The race was won by War of Will, who had finished seventh in the Derby.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the typical field size of the Preakness Stakes is 8-14 horses, although it can vary from year to year. The field size is affected by several factors, including the quality of the horses nominated, the weather conditions, and the post position draw.
The post position can be an important factor in the race, with horses that draw post positions closer to the rail having an advantage. The field size can also impact the competitiveness of the race, with larger fields leading to more competitive races.
Overall, the Preakness Stakes is a prestigious horse racing event that attracts top-class horses, jockeys, and trainers from around the world. Whether the field size is large or small, the Preakness Stakes is always a highly anticipated and exciting event.
Recap
In this article, we discussed the following key points:
- The typical field size of the Preakness Stakes is 8-14 horses.
- The field size can vary from year to year, depending on several factors.
- The post position can be an important factor in the race, with horses that draw post positions closer to the rail having an advantage.
- The field size can impact the competitiveness of the race, with larger fields leading to more competitive races.
- The Preakness Stakes is a prestigious horse racing event that attracts top-class horses, jockeys, and trainers from around the world.
We hope this article has provided you with a better understanding of the Preakness Stakes and its field size. Whether you’re a seasoned horse racing fan or just starting out, the Preakness Stakes is an event that is not to be missed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical number of horses that run in the Preakness?
The typical number of horses that run in the Preakness Stakes is 8-10. However, the maximum number of horses allowed to run is 14. (See Also: How To Train Horses)
Is the number of horses running in the Preakness fixed?
No, the number of horses running in the Preakness is not fixed. The number can vary from year to year, depending on the number of horses that are entered and the decisions of the trainers and owners.
How are the horses selected to run in the Preakness?
The horses that run in the Preakness are selected based on their performance in previous races, particularly the Kentucky Derby. The top finishers in the Derby are typically invited to run in the Preakness, along with other horses that have demonstrated strong performances in other races.
Can any horse run in the Preakness?
No, not any horse can run in the Preakness. Horses must meet certain eligibility requirements, such as being three-year-olds and meeting certain performance standards. Additionally, the Preakness has a limited number of spots available, so not all horses that want to run can be accommodated.
Are there any restrictions on the number of horses an owner or trainer can enter in the Preakness?
Yes, there are restrictions on the number of horses an owner or trainer can enter in the Preakness. Typically, an owner or trainer is limited to entering two horses in the race, although there may be some exceptions in certain circumstances.
