In the sport of horse racing, the Triple Crown is the most prestigious award that may be won. Comprising of three major horse races—the Belmont Stakes, the Preakness Stakes, and the Kentucky Derby, the award represents the pinnacle of equestrian achievement and perseverance.
The Preakness Stakes is the “Middle Jewel” of the Triple Crown because of its special and pivotal place in the series. If you want to understand the Preakness odds importance, this article provides you with insights into the history, significance, and traditions that make this race a beloved and crucial part of the Triple Crown.
1. A Glimpse into History
The Preakness Stakes, named after the winning colt of the first-ever race, Preakness, dates back to 1873. It began at Baltimore’s Pimlico Race Course just two years after the Kentucky Derby. Interestingly, this race is the second-oldest of the Triple Crown races, even older than the Belmont Stakes. The length of the course is a defining feature of the Preakness.
Shorter than the Belmont Stakes (1.5 miles) and the Kentucky Derby (1.25 miles), the race distance is 1 and 3/16 miles (about 1.9 kilometers). Many horses that ran in the Kentucky Derby return to redeem themselves at the Preakness Stakes due to its short distance.
2. The Significance in the Triple Crown Quest
The Preakness Stakes plays a pivotal role in the Triple Crown quest, serving as the second leg of the series. It means that by the time horses arrive at Pimlico, they have already faced the grueling challenge of the Kentucky Derby. If a horse emerges victorious in both the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness, it enters the Belmont Stakes with the hopes of securing the elusive Triple Crown.
Winning the Triple Crown is an exceptionally rare and prestigious achievement. Since Sir Barton became the first horse to accomplish this feat in 1919, only 13 others have managed to do the same.
3. Traditions and Excitement of the Preakness Stakes
The Preakness Stakes is unlike any other horse race since it has a lively and exciting environment in addition to the thrilling competition. Dubbed the “The People’s Race…The People’s Party,” this race embraces a festive and celebratory spirit.
One of the most iconic traditions associated with the Preakness is the “Black-Eyed Susan,” a cocktail named after the official flower of the race. The InfieldFest, a music festival held within the Pimlico Race Course, is another hallmark of the Preakness experience.
In conclusion, the Preakness Stakes occupies a special place in horse racing history as the “Middle Jewel” of the Triple Crown. Fans of all stripes will continue appreciating this race because of its storied past, pivotal place in the Triple Crown quest, and lively customs.
