Preakness Stakes Post Positions Announced: A Wide-Open Race Takes Shape

The stage is set for the 150th running of the Preakness Stakes, the second jewel in horse racing’s Triple Crown. With the post positions now officially drawn, anticipation is building for what promises to be a highly competitive and unpredictable race. This year’s Preakness presents a particularly intriguing scenario, as the absence of the Kentucky Derby champion and a prominent contender trained by Bob Baffert throws the race wide open, creating opportunities for emerging stars to shine.

The news of Sovereignty’s withdrawal from the Preakness due to a minor setback sent ripples through the racing community. The Kentucky Derby winner, who displayed impressive speed and stamina at Churchill Downs, was expected to be a major force in the Preakness. Similarly, the absence of Rodriguez, a highly regarded colt trained by the legendary Bob Baffert, further alters the landscape of the race. Rodriguez, known for his powerful closing ability, was considered a serious threat to challenge for the Preakness crown.

Despite these notable absences, the 150th Preakness Stakes boasts a field of talented and determined contenders, each vying for the coveted title. The post-position draw has added another layer of intrigue, as trainers and jockeys strategize how to best navigate the challenging Pimlico Race Course.

Bob Baffert, a dominant figure in horse racing history, remains a formidable presence in this year’s Preakness. He is aiming for a record-extending ninth Preakness victory with Goal Oriented, a promising colt who has been steadily improving in his recent starts. Goal Oriented has drawn the coveted No. 1 post position, which could prove advantageous, allowing him to establish an early position on the rail and potentially dictate the pace of the race. Baffert’s experience and expertise in preparing horses for Triple Crown races make Goal Oriented a serious contender to watch.

Adding to the drama, the Kentucky Derby runner-up, Journalism, has drawn post position No. 2. Journalism, who ran a valiant race at Churchill Downs, narrowly missing out on the victory, is eager to avenge his defeat and prove his mettle in the Preakness. The inside post position could be advantageous for Journalism, allowing him to save ground on the first turn and position himself for a strong late run. However, it could also present challenges, as he will need to navigate traffic and avoid getting boxed in along the rail.

American Promise, another horse who competed in the Kentucky Derby, has drawn post position No. 3. American Promise, who showed flashes of brilliance in the Derby, is looking to improve upon his performance and challenge for a top spot in the Preakness. The No. 3 post offers a favorable starting position, allowing American Promise to secure a good position early in the race and potentially dictate the pace.

The remaining post positions have been assigned to a diverse group of contenders, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. Several of these horses have bypassed the Kentucky Derby, opting to target the Preakness as their first major race of the Triple Crown season. This fresh approach could give them an edge over horses who have already endured the rigors of the Derby.

The 150th Preakness Stakes promises to be a thrilling spectacle, showcasing the speed, stamina, and determination of these exceptional thoroughbreds. The absence of the Kentucky Derby winner and a Baffert trainee has created a wide-open race, where any number of horses could emerge victorious. The post-position draw has further intensified the drama, adding another layer of strategic complexity.

Horse racing enthusiasts and casual fans alike will be eagerly anticipating the running of the Preakness Stakes on Saturday, May 17th. The race is scheduled to begin at 6:50 p.m. ET, and will be broadcast live on Fubo.

As the horses enter the starting gate and the crowd roars, the excitement will reach fever pitch. The 150th Preakness Stakes is sure to be a race for the ages, a testament to the enduring allure of horse racing and the unwavering spirit of competition. Prepare to witness history in the making as these magnificent animals thunder down the track, vying for glory and a place in racing lore.