Tag Archives: Preakness Stakes

*Featured/Spotlights, Horse Racing, Racing

US Horse Racing Top 4 Betting Events

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Interest in horse racing in the United States has never been higher, with increased media coverage helping to promote the sport to a much wider audience in recent years.

Nowhere is that point better highlighted than in the United Kingdom, where Sky Sports Racing broadcasts live action from the US on a daily basis. This has created a scenario where the top-class races in the US now attract significantly more international entries, thus boosting the quality of the action.

Read on as we take a look at the four standout events in the US racing calendar – the Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes, Belmont Stakes, and Breeders’ Cup.

Kentucky Derby

The Kentucky Derby is a Grade I stakes race for three-year-old Thoroughbred horses held over 10 furlongs at Churchill Downs in early May. It is the first leg of the Triple Crown alongside the Preakness and Belmont, and generally attracts a field of 20 runners.

Horses can qualify for the event by accumulating points in a series of 35 races dubbed the ‘Road to the Kentucky Derby’, which take place at tracks across the US, Europe, and Asia.

Often called the ‘Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports’, the Derby regularly attracts more than 150,000 spectators to Churchill annually.

Preakness Stakes

Run over a slightly shorter distance of one and 3/16 of a mile, the Preakness Stakes is staged at Pimlico Racecourse on the third Saturday in May each year.

Attendance at the Preakness Stakes usually beats all other stakes races including the Belmont Stakes, the Breeders’ Cup, and the Kentucky Oaks. The only exception to this is the Kentucky Derby, which often attracts over 20,000 more spectators when it is staged earlier in the month.

Notable past winners of the Preakness include Secretariat, Affirmed, and American Pharoah, each of whom went on to complete the Triple Crown.

Belmont Stakes

Traditionally the third and final leg of the Triple Crown, the Belmont Stakes is run at Belmont Park on the first or second Saturday in June. Run over one and a half miles, the race is widely viewed as the event which determines the best middle-distance horse in the US, according to the horse racing betting guide.

The most famous winner of the race was Secretariat, whose winning time 2:24.00 remains a track and world record for the distance on dirt.

Justify’s stunning victory under jockey Mike Smith in the 150th running of the race in 2018 saw him become the 13th Triple Crown champion.

The Breeders’ Cup

The Breeders’ Cup World Championships is a series of Grade I thoroughbred races staged annually at different tracks in the US or Canada. It was initially a single-day event, before expanding into a second day in 2007 due to the enormous global interest in the meeting.

The Breeders’ Cup kicks off with Future Stars Friday, which comprises five top-class juvenile races featuring racing’s brightest rising stars. Championship Saturday is one of the richest days in racing, culminating with the hugely prestigious $6 million Breeders’ Cup Classic.

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*Featured/Spotlights, Horse Racing, Racing

Horseracing Series 2021

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2021 has been another huge year for the horse racing industry worldwide. While many great events took place, the two main series in the United States were the Triple Crown in the spring and the Breeders’ Cup in the fall.

The Triple Crown

The Triple Crown began in May, making it one of the two most important months on the horse racing schedule. Online horse betting has reached a peak, including many options for betting on the go using horse betting apps such as these: https://horse-betting.pro/guides/best-horse-betting-apps/.

The Triple Crown series of races are traditionally run in May and early June of each year, although global events have resulted in schedule adjustments, such as in 1945 and 2020.

On the first Saturday of the month of May, and the first of the Triple Crown series, the legendary Kentucky Derby takes place at a distance of a mile and a quarter. With a purse of some $3 million and a huge worldwide following, the Derby is one of the top horse events on the planet.  Thunderous applause can be heard from afar during the Kentucky Derby at the gorgeous Churchill Downs (Kentucky).

It is dubbed “The Run for the Roses,” stemming from the blanket of roses draped over the winner, and in the United States it is also known as “The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports” or “The Fastest Two Minutes in Sports” because of its approximate duration. It is the first leg of the American Triple Crown, followed by the Preakness Stakes, and then the Belmont Stakes.

Three weeks after the Derby comes the Preakness Stakes at Pimlico Racecourse in Baltimore, Maryland with a distance of 9.5 furlongs (1+3⁄16 miles (1,900 m)) on dirt. It has been dubbed “The Middle Jewel of the Triple Crown.”

The Preakness Stakes has also been termed “The Run for the Black-Eyed Susans” because a blanket of Maryland’s state flower is placed across the withers of the winning colt or filly. Attendance at the Preakness Stakes ranks second in North America among equestrian events, surpassed only by the Kentucky Derby.

An interesting history of the Preakness is that Pimlico officially opened October 25, 1870 with the colt Preakness winning the first running of the Dinner Party Stakes. Approximately 12,000 people attended, many taking special race trains arranged by the Northern Central Railway. Three years later the horse had the 1873 Preakness Stakes named in his honor.

The final leg in the American Triple Crown, open to three-year-old Thoroughbreds, is the Belmont Stakes, known by the nicknames “The Test of the Champion”/”The Run for the Carnations”/”The Third Jewel of the Triple Crown.”  The Belmont Stakes takes place on the first Saturday in June in Elmont (an unincorporated hamlet), New York.

When run at 1+1⁄2 miles, the Belmont Stakes covers one full lap of Belmont Park, known as “The Championship Track,” because nearly every major American champion in racing history has competed on the racetrack. Despite the distance, the race tends to favor horses with tactical speed: relatively few winners close from far behind the early leaders.

The 2021 Belmont Stakes was the 153rd running of the Belmont Stakes and the 110th time the event took place at Belmont Park. It is the final race of the Triple Crown.

The Triple Crown has come to represent the pinnacle achievement in horseracing. In its history, only 13 horses have won all three races; two of them are still alive.

The Breeders Cup World Championships

Ending at one finish line is the of the Breeders’ Cup World Championships, an annual series of Grade I Thoroughbred horse races held on the first weekend of November.  These races are operated by Breeders’ Cup Limited, and in 2021, The Breeders’ Cup will return to another iconic racing venue: Del Mar, where the turf meets the surf Southern California style.

The event was created as a year-end championship for North American Thoroughbred racing, and also attracts top horses from other parts of the world, especially Europe.

With the current 2021 year having $31 million in purses and awards, every horse, jockey, trainer, and owner around the world has this two-day, 14-race, year-end culmination of the Breeders’ Cup World Championships in their sights.

Many Breeders’ Cup winners will go on to win the Eclipse Award in their respective division. For example, of the eleven flat racehorse categories, seven of the Eclipse winners in 2015 had also won a Breeders’ Cup race, while three others were in the money.

The Breeders’ Cup Championship Saturday is one of the richest days in racing awarding over $22 million in purses and awards over 9 races, culminating in the defining event of the international racing season, the $6 Million Breeders’ Cup Classic.

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*Featured/Spotlights, Racing

Biggest Challenges for Authentic at Preakness Stakes

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Image from horseracingnation.com.

October 3rd will mark the start of the 2020 Preakness Stakes and the last of the Triple Crown races – all having taken place without any fans in attendance. Authentic continues to remain the fan favourite at the Preakness Stakes but there’s certainly some competition to overcome – so who are the front runners that may provide a challenge?

Belmont Stakes winner Tiz The Law continues to be the biggest name in contention – although it is still looking unlikely that Preakness is out of the question – trainer Barclay Tagg had stated it might be more prudent to wait for the Breeders’ Cup Classic, but with no final decision being made just yet it is still a possibility. Foreign oddsmakers may have jumped the gun a little here too as Tiz The Law would become 11-10 favourite assuming he attended the event.

Thousand Words has also been considered a good competitor despite taking a fall earlier in the month – trainer Bob Baffert said, “He didn’t have a scratch on him; he fell on his side, so we were fortunate. We’re planning on sending both Authentic and Thousand Words if they’re doing well” – a lucky escape for the trainers which could see two horses in contention for the win.

Following a 46-1 upset earlier in the year at Oaklawn Stakes, Mr. Big News had been one name popping up and with early uncertainty as Bret Calhoun wouldn’t commit to a next race – after being entered to the derby however the chance is certainly there to come away with another big upset victory and really break up the triple crown which has already been confirmed not to see a triple winner.

Following a theme of potential injury, Art Collector continues to remain a contender despite nicking his front left heel in training earlier in the month – trainer Tommy Drury stated, “I knew after we gave him a little anti-inflammatory that he’d be perfectly sound. We wanted him to respond well to it, and it looks like that’s what happened” – looking for a strong run at Preakness, the list of competition for Authentic is looking fierce.

Others who may have contended are already out, however, as Azul Coast likely won’t make an appearance – racing only twice since a February win with some poor performances along the way, trainer Bob Baffert confirmed via text message last month that he wouldn’t be attending the Baltimore race despite qualifying earlier in the year.

With Preakness being moved to the end of the derby, it will be interesting to see if it shakes things up – usually the second race in the running it likely won’t have any impact but it can always be a consideration especially for the jockeys – they’ll all be used to racing without fans in attendance, however, as the change has been in place since the start of the year and is looking unlikely to change any time soon – tune in on October 3rd to see all of the challengers, and with any luck some of the unconfirmed favourites will start to come through too.

*Featured/Spotlights, Racing

What Preakness Stakes Betting Odds and Field Looks Like in the New Normal

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The COVID-19 pandemic has caused a lot of havoc in the world. The sports industry is one of the most affected industries, leading to a major setback and schedule changes since the start of this year. Some tournaments got suspended while others are coming back, following the full health protocols imposed by the government.

Although many sports faced an indefinite suspension this year, the U.S. Triple Crown Series has fortunately found a way to continue the horse racing games. However, it had a unique arrangement this year, where the Belmont Stakes launched the series, followed by the Kentucky Derby, and closed by the Preakness Stakes.

Taking the last piece of the Triple Crown Series today is the Preakness Stakes. Aside from the concluding show, it will hail a possible Triple Crown winner. While it’s still early to find out the 2020 Preakness Stakes odds, here’s what the whole Preakness Stakes field will look like in today’s new normal.

2020 Preakness Stakes Main Superstars

With the Derby trails and pre-Triple Crown races accomplished this month, fans can anticipate the best horses in the field. Earlier this year, several Derby-prep races settled in notable racecourses, which helped the horses to earn the needed points. Apart from that, other racing tournaments let the colts earn significant placements, which boost their odds.

So, in the upcoming 145th renewal of the Run For The Black-Eyed Susans, only the best all-three-year old thoroughbreds are gracing the dirt track. Hence, you should not miss watching this event, as everyone can see a head-to-head challenge. You can witness an intense showdown that will help you get up your feet and take your breath away.

Massive Betting Games

With all the major changes happening in the Triple Crown Series today, one thing that remained consistent is the betting games. Punters can still look forward to the complete betting categories they can wager to boost their bankroll. There are simple betting games and the challenging ones that let you test your betting prowess.

In the upcoming Preakness Stakes, there are already horses who sent their bid to run inevitably. Their odds and lines are already up, so you might want to review them. Remember that there is no consistent formula you can apply to pick deserving bets. However, if you know how to study each line movement and racehorse’s ability, you will be heading to form the right bets.

Limited Number of Spectators

The Belmont Stakes this year started with no spectators on the field. The Kentucky Derby will come in two weeks, which will allow fewer numbers of fans. In the Preakness Stakes, the Stronach Group has agreed to allow a limited number of audiences at the Pimlico Park. In line with this, fans are required to follow strict health protocols to contain the Coronavirus.

The Preakness Stakes tickets are already up in their website and partner merchants. Make sure to reserve your tickets as early as now as it may run out soon. If you happen to watch the live show, you must fulfill the necessary tests before entering the field. The hospitality tickets are also offered but with many health restrictions.

No InfieldFest Happening

The InfieldFest is an annual gathering happening the night after the racing game. It highlights a loud music festival, where fans can dance to the beat of the music. Not only that, but some famous Hollywood performers also grace the party. They portray a concert-vibe InfieldFest where you can feel the culture of the Preakness Stakes.

However, this year, the festival won’t happen due to social distancing rules. The only thing that will take place is the formal racing and betting games. Although InfieldFest is not happening, you can still savor the fine dining offered at Pimlico Park. Besides that, the Black-Eyed Susans cocktail is still served, which is the official cocktail drink of the Preakness Stakes.

Barn Tour Will Still Take Place

The Barn tour is a significant event to take note of in the Preakness Stakes. It happens two days before the formal racing starts, where the horses, trainers, and jockeys are making their final preparation. The official fourteen Preakness Stakes participants will also have their workouts during the Barn Tour to check if they are ready for the competition.

If you are betting for the Preakness Stakes and still torn on which horse to wager, take time to participate in the Barn Tour. It is your best venue to observe and compare all the colts. It should be your basis which entry you’re finally cheering on.

Takeaway

With heavy anticipation and thrill, the Preakness Stakes this year will not surely disappoint you as it ends the Triple Crown in a new normal edition. It might bring tighter security inside the field to contain the virus from spreading. However, the one thing that’s never going to change is the betting games and the fun it brings.

*Featured/Spotlights, Racing

Tyler Gaffalione Races to First Place Finish in 144th Preakness Stakes

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Tyler Gaffalione and War Of Will. Photo By: Jim McCue/The Maryland Jockey Club.

Gilbert, AZ – May 22, 2019 – On Saturday, May 18, a field of 13 horses were led to the finish line by American Equus Chosen Rider Tyler Gaffalione during the 144th run of the Preakness Stakes. Starting at the number one post, Gaffalione piloted Gary Barber’s War Of Will, trained by Mark Cassee, through the 1 3/16 mile race at the Pimlico track in Baltimore, Maryland. Capturing the middle jewel of the Triple Crown, this victory marks Gaffalione’s first Triple Crown win as a jockey.

As the largest Preakness Stakes since 2011, a crowd of 131,256 people watched on as Gaffalione and the 6-1 third betting choice horse made their move through an opening on the rail in the final turn to take the lead and gallop to the finish line. Their impressive time of 1 minute and 54.34 seconds ultimately added to the list of Gaffalione’s 1,086 career wins.

Other American Equus jockeys, Ricardo Santana and Javier Castellano, had an outstanding showing at Pimlico. Santana guided New York Central to a win in the Maryland Sprint Stakes G3 in Saturday’s schedule, while Castellano won an unprecedented 4 races on Friday, including the Black Eyed Susan G2 Stakes on Point of Honor.

“This win marks our companies third back-to-back Preakness win since gaining our first one in 2017. With this additional title we now hold four Triple Crown wins thanks to the world-class jockeys that trust our product and brand to carry them around the track. Tyler Gaffalione is a great representation of the talent we are lucky to have represent us. The whole team at American Equus is proud of this great accomplishment,” shares David Shano, Founder and CEO of America Equus. “With Belmont only three weeks away we cannot wait to see what War Of Will can accomplish next.”

For a complete list of results in the 144th Preakness Stakes, click here.

Media Contact: Lenore Phillips
561-753-3389 | lrb@phelpsmediagroup.com

*Featured/Spotlights, Racing

Justify Has Triple Crown Quality

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Photo: KentuckyDerby via Twitter.

Justify produced an outstanding performance to win the Kentucky Derby, delivering on the pre-race expectations to triumph at the event. The bay colt was considered the favourite for the meet, although there was perceived threat of a challenge from the emergence of Aidan O’Brien’s Mendelssohn. However, O’Brien’s charge endured a miserable time at the Churchill Downs as Justify confirmed his dominance of the field, securing the victory ahead of Good Magic by two-and-a-half lengths. It was Bob Baffert’s fifth triumph in the Derby, leaving him just one behind Ben A Jones at the top of the all-time list.

Justify has the talent to build on his success, boasting similar qualities to that of Baffert’s previous victor at the Derby – American Pharoah. The horse would win the Triple Crown, adding further victories at the Preakness Stakes and Breeders’ Cup Classic. The three-year-old’s performance has seen him installed as the leading contender for the next race of the trilogy – the Preakness Stakes. As a result, he does not have great value in the betting odds, although given the dominance of his performance at the Churchill Downs, the bookies will be confident in their assertions.

However, given the difficulty of achieving the Triple Crown, it could be worth considering an outsider for the crown. In recent years, both California Chrome and I’ll Have Another have won two of the events but, ultimately, fell short of etching their place in history. Justify may have the quality to rise to the occasion on the two race days, but it could be worth considering another horse for the Preakness Stakes such as Good Magic. He does have a victory at the Sentient Jet Breeders’ Cup Juvenile, defeating Solomini and Bolt D’Oro. Good Magic could be worth backing with a free bet at 7/2, with https://freebets.uk/ offering a variety of sign-up offers, including with Bet365 to get up to £100 in free credits.

Baffert’s charge has known nothing other than victory and is rightly the leading contender for the Preakness Stakes. He has four races under his belt in his limited career, becoming the first horse since 1882 to win the Kentucky Derby having not competed as a two-year-old since 1882. Justify has won four of his meets by comfortable margins. In his final outing before the Derby he put a marker down against one of his rivals for the crown, defeating Bolt D’Oro by three lengths.

One of the criticisms levied at Justify ahead of the Derby was his lack of action away from Santa Anita. Conditions were tricky due to heavy rainfall at the Churchill Downs, but Mike E Smith ensured that he kept his charge on course for the victory. He made his move four furlongs from the end of the race and was able to maintain his surge down the straight to see out a comfortable win, finishing two-and-a-half lengths ahead of Good Magic. The next challenge for Justify will come at Pimlico where his rival could end his attempt for a historic run towards the Triple Crown.

Breeds, Contributors/Press, Racing

Old Friends to Hold Memorial Day Service for Departed Champions

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GEORGETOWN, KY – MAY 25, 2011 – On Memorial Day Old Friends, the Thoroughbred Retirement facility in Georgetown, KY, will have a commemorative service for the six retirees that passed away since last spring.

The public is invited to attend the event, which will begin at 2 p.m. on Monday May 30 at Old Friends’ Dream Chase Farm, 1841 Paynes Depot Road in Georgetown.  Refreshments will be served.

Honored will be:

–Academy Award (1986-2010), one of the few remaining sons of Secretariat, he was the sire of 10 stakes winners;
–The Wicked North (1989-2011), a California superstar, he was named Eclipse Champion Older Male in 1994;
–Polish Navy (1984-2011), a great son of Danzig and multiple GR1 winner;
–Bonnie’s Poker (1982-2010) one of Old Friends’ mares, she was the dam of 1997 Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes winner Silver Charm;
–Glitterman, (1985-2011) a world-record-setting sprinter and sire of four millionaires, including Balto Star;
–Jade Hunter (1984-2011), a GR1 winner and sire of Horse of the Year, Azeri.

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