The eagerly anticipated Preakness Stakes, the second jewel in the illustrious Triple Crown series, is drawing near, with the announcement of starting gate positions for the competing thoroughbreds just days away.
As per tradition, this prestigious event, held annually on the third Saturday of May, will showcase the nation's elite 14 three-year-old horses. They will compete for glory over a demanding 1 3/16-mile course. This year, the race will be hosted at Laurel Park in Laurel, Maryland, a temporary change due to ongoing refurbishments at the historical Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore.
This year's Triple Crown aspirations have been altered following the decision to withdraw Kentucky Derby victor, Golden Tempo, from the Preakness Stakes. His trainer, Cherie DeVaux of Cherie DeVaux Racing, made the announcement earlier this week, emphasizing that the horse’s health and long-term future are paramount. DeVaux stated, "Golden delivered an unforgettable performance at the Kentucky Derby, and we believe it's in his best interest to allow him more recovery time after such a strenuous effort. His health, happiness, and future well-being will always be our primary concern. We anticipate his return to racing later this season, fully rejuvenated and ready for optimal competition." This strategic move mirrors last year's decision by trainer Bill Mott, who opted to rest Kentucky Derby winner Sovereignty, a choice that ultimately led to Sovereignty clinching the Belmont Stakes, the final leg of the Triple Crown.
Achieving the Triple Crown is a rare feat, accomplished only 13 times in over a century of American horse racing. The most recent winner, Justify in 2018, joined an exclusive group, which includes American Pharoah, who broke a 37-year drought in 2015. The post position draw for the 2026 Preakness Stakes is scheduled for Monday, May 11, at 5 p.m. ET, and will be available for streaming on Preakness.com and the official Preakness Stakes YouTube channel. The 151st Preakness Stakes race will take place on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at Laurel Park. Coverage will be available on NBC and USA Network, with streaming options via Peacock. Early odds for the contenders include Crude Velocity at 4-1, Iron Honor at 19-1, Taj Mahal at 20-1, and Cherokee Nation at 22-1.
The path to greatness is often fraught with challenges and strategic decisions. The withdrawal of a Derby winner from the Preakness, while disappointing for some, underscores a deeper commitment to the welfare of these magnificent athletes. It reminds us that true sportsmanship extends beyond the pursuit of victory, embracing the responsibility to protect and nurture the talent within. This perspective fosters a more compassionate and sustainable future for equestrian sports, where the well-being of the horse is rightfully prioritized, ensuring their ability to compete and inspire for years to come.