The 151st Preakness Stakes is set to run this evening, and while the atmosphere at Pimlico may feel a bit different—with attendance capped at 4,500 and the historic track undergoing a full rebuild—the horses themselves are ready to deliver an unforgettable race. This year's event has shifted to Laurel Park, adding a unique chapter to the storied middle jewel of the Triple Crown. Think of it as a sort of "gap year" for the Preakness, as Maryland takes over as Pimlico's landlord and Churchill Downs secures the race's intellectual rights. And for the second straight year, the Kentucky Derby winner has opted to skip the Preakness, aiming instead for the Belmont Stakes.
But don't let that diminish the excitement. The field is packed with talent, led by Derby standout Ocelli, who stunned the crowd as a 70-1 longshot, finishing just a neck behind the winner at Churchill Downs. Trained by Whitworth Beckman, Ocelli proved his grit and will be a horse to watch. Joining him is Riley Mott's Incredibolt, who ran a solid sixth in the Derby, showing he can hang with the best. Then there's Iron Honor, the narrow morning-line favorite, along with Taj Mahal and Chip Honcho, rounding out the top contenders in a deep 14-horse field.
As the debate heats up about moving the Preakness later into summer to give horses more recovery time between Triple Crown races, tonight's race promises to be a tight, tactical battle. Here's a quick look at the field and morning-line odds to help you handicap the action:
1) Taj Mahal (5-1) – Jockey Sheldon Russell, Trainer Brittany Russell
2) Ocelli (8-1) – Jockey [TBD], Trainer Whitworth Beckman
3) Incredibolt (6-1) – Jockey [TBD], Trainer Riley Mott
4) Iron Honor (3-1) – Jockey [TBD], Trainer [TBD]
5) Chip Honcho (10-1) – Jockey [TBD], Trainer [TBD]
Whether you're a seasoned bettor or a casual fan, this Preakness is shaping up to be a can't-miss event. So grab your finest Derby attire, settle in, and get ready for a thrilling evening of horse racing history in the making.
