The Preakness Stakes is an illustrious American thoroughbred horse race that is part of the renowned Triple Crown.

The race is held annually on the third Saturday in May at the Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Maryland.

The race, which was first run in 1873, is the second jewel of the Triple Crown and is run over a distance of 1+3⁄16 miles (9.5 furlongs; 1.9 kilometers) on dirt.

Here, we delve into the history and the remarkable horses that have left an indelible mark on the Preakness Stakes.

Preakness Stakes: A Brief History

The Preakness Stakes was inaugurated on May 27, 1873, and has since become an integral part of American horse racing history.

The race was named by a former Maryland governor after the colt who won the first Dinner Party Stakes at Pimlico.

It is worth noting that the race is open to 3-year-old Thoroughbreds and is held two weeks after the Kentucky Derby and three weeks before the Belmont Stakes.

The Preakness Stakes boasts a rich history, with various changes in location and race conditions, reflecting its evolution over the years.

The Legendary Record Holder: Secretariat

In the history of the Preakness Stakes, one name stands out among the rest - Secretariat.

Widely considered the greatest racing horse in the history of the sport, Secretariat holds the crown with the fastest record at the Preakness Stakes.

This chestnut-coated stallion became the first horse in more than two decades to win the Triple Crown in 1973 and did so by setting record finishes at the biggest events in U.S. horse racing.

Secretariat's Remarkable Victory

In May 1973, Secretariat showcased his extraordinary speed at the Preakness race.

Despite starting the race in last place, Secretariat displayed an exceptional burst of momentum that swiftly propelled him to the lead.

Maintaining the top spot throughout, he crossed the finish line in a record time of 1:53, leaving spectators in awe and solidifying his place in racing history.

Official Record Correction

For decades, the official record set by Secretariat remained miscalculated at 1:54 2/5. 

But in 2012, the record was officially corrected after a forensic review of the tapes discovered that the race clocker had failed to properly keep track of the time.

This correction established Secretariat's official record time at 1:53, thereby recognizing his unparalleled speed and prowess.

Notable Contenders

While Secretariat holds the fastest record at the Preakness Stakes, several other remarkable racehorses have left their mark on this prestigious event.

Let's take a look at some of the notable contenders who have achieved remarkable feats at the Preakness Stakes.

Swiss Skydiver (2020)

In 2020, the champion filly Swiss Skydiver delivered a powerful performance at the Preakness Stakes, securing the second-fastest time in the history of the race at 1:53.28.

Her victory, achieved after saving ground and delivering a dramatic mid-race move, showcased her exceptional speed and determination.

Curlin (2007)

Curlin, a prominent racehorse, set a blazing pace at the 2007 Preakness, finishing with a remarkable time of 1:53.46.

Coming from off the pace, Curlin's impressive sprint and victory over the Kentucky Derby winner demonstrated his exceptional talent and earned him a place among the top record-holders at the Pimlico racetrack.

Tank's Prospect (1982)

Tank's Prospect, a bay-colored stallion, set the third-best time at the Preakness Stakes in 1982, achieving a time of 1:53 2/5.

Despite initially falling to the back of the field, Tank's Prospect broke out in a sprint in the last minute, securing a surprising victory and setting a Preakness record.

To sum things up

The Preakness Stakes has witnessed the triumph of extraordinary racehorses, each leaving an indelible mark on the annals of American horse racing.

While Secretariat holds the record for the fastest time at the Preakness Stakes, other notable contenders such as Swiss Skydiver, Curlin, and Tank's Prospect have also etched their names in the history of this prestigious event.

As the Preakness Stakes continues to captivate audiences, it remains a testament to the unparalleled speed, skill, and determination of these remarkable equine athletes.

The legacy of these exceptional racehorses continues to inspire and awe, cementing their place in the pantheon of racing legends.

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