The Preakness Stakes, the second jewel in horse racing’s prestigious Triple Crown, draws immense attention from fans and experts alike. Knowing which horses are competing in this iconic race is crucial for anyone looking to follow the action, place bets, or simply appreciate the athleticism and history on display.
Overview of the Preakness Stakes
Held annually at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Maryland, the Preakness Stakes is a grueling 1 3/16-mile dirt race that tests the stamina and speed of the nation’s top three-year-old thoroughbreds. The race is renowned for its colorful history, its vibrant infield scene, and the chance for a horse to inch closer to achieving the coveted Triple Crown.
Who Will Be Running?
The field for the Preakness Stakes is typically determined in the weeks leading up to the race. Horses that have performed well in earlier races, particularly the Kentucky Derby, are considered strong contenders. The official list of entrants, along with their jockeys and trainers, is released closer to the race date.
## What Horses Are Running in the Preakness
The Preakness Stakes, the second jewel in the prestigious Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing, is set to take place at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Maryland. This iconic race attracts some of the best three-year-old colts and fillies in the world, all vying for the chance to etch their names in racing history.
This year’s Preakness field promises to be particularly exciting, with several talented horses looking to make their mark.
The Favorites
Several horses enter the Preakness with strong credentials and are considered favorites by oddsmakers and racing experts. (See Also: Why Do We Put Shoes On Horses)
* **National Treasure:** Trained by Bob Baffert, National Treasure emerged victorious in the Grade 1 Santa Anita Derby, showcasing his impressive speed and stamina. He will be looking to continue his winning streak and become the latest Baffert-trained horse to conquer the Preakness.
* **Mage:** The Kentucky Derby winner, Mage, is the horse to beat. Trained by Gustavo Delgado, Mage overcame a challenging race to secure the victory in the first leg of the Triple Crown. His ability to handle pressure and perform under scrutiny makes him a formidable contender.
* **Two Phil’s:** Second in the Kentucky Derby, Two Phil’s is another strong contender for the Preakness. Trained by Larry Rivelli, Two Phil’s displayed a strong finish in the Derby, indicating his potential to improve upon his previous performance.
Other Contenders
Beyond the favorites, several other horses have the potential to make a significant impact in the Preakness.
* **Blazing Sevens:** A consistent performer throughout the year, Blazing Sevens finished third in the Wood Memorial and is looking to prove himself on the big stage.
* **Derma Sotogake:** The Japanese-bred colt Derma Sotogake brings international flair to the race. His impressive performance in the UAE Derby suggests he could be a dark horse contender.
The Field
Here is a complete list of the horses expected to run in the 2023 Preakness Stakes:
1. National Treasure
2. Mage
3. Two Phil’s
4. Blazing Sevens
5. Derma Sotogake
6.
7.
8.
9.
10. (See Also: What Are Big Lick Horses)
Preakness Stakes History and Significance
The Preakness Stakes has a rich history dating back to 1873. It is the second leg of the Triple Crown, a prestigious series of three races that includes the Kentucky Derby, the Preakness Stakes, and the Belmont Stakes. Winning the Triple Crown is a monumental achievement in horse racing, with only a handful of horses accomplishing this feat throughout history.
The Preakness Stakes is known for its unique traditions, including the presentation of the Black-Eyed Susan, a symbol of good luck. The race is also famous for its challenging track, which features a tight turn and a long stretch run.
Conclusion
The 2023 Preakness Stakes promises to be a thrilling spectacle, with a competitive field of talented horses vying for victory. The race will be a test of speed, stamina, and determination, as the contenders battle it out for the coveted title.
The Preakness Stakes is more than just a horse race; it is a celebration of tradition, athleticism, and the enduring spirit of competition.
Frequently Asked Questions: What Horses Are Running in the Preakness?
When is the Preakness Stakes held?
The Preakness Stakes is typically held on the third Saturday in May.
Where is the Preakness Stakes run?
The Preakness Stakes is run at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Maryland. (See Also: How To Plait A Horses Mane)
How can I find the list of horses running in the Preakness?
You can find the official list of horses entered in the Preakness Stakes on the official website of the Maryland Jockey Club or major horse racing news outlets.
Are the same horses that run in the Kentucky Derby also running in the Preakness?
Not always. While many horses that compete in the Kentucky Derby also run in the Preakness, some may skip the race due to injury, fatigue, or other reasons.
What is the significance of the Preakness Stakes?
The Preakness Stakes is the second leg of the Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing, a prestigious series of three races that includes the Kentucky Derby and the Belmont Stakes. Winning the Preakness is a major accomplishment in horse racing.
