Facts About The 133rd Preakness Stakes - May 17, 2008

The Preakness Stakes: The Middle Jewel of the Triple Crown

Preakness is the second leg of the prestigious Triple Crown Race for top 3-year-old thoroughbreds in America. After the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs, horse racing handicappers, bettors, and fans turn their attention to the Preakness. This race is the indicator on whether there will be a Triple Crown nominee to root for at Belmont in June.

The Preakness Stakes is a classic 1 3/16 mile (1.91 km) thoroughbred horse race for three-year-olds, held on the third Saturday in May of each year at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Maryland. Colts and geldings carry 126 pounds (57 kg); fillies 121 lb (55 kg).

Like its preceding Triple Crown race, the Preakness Stakes have been termed "The Run for the Black-Eyed Susans" because a horseshoe of black-eyed susans is traditionally placed around the winner's neck.