The Preakness Stakes, a historic race dating back to 1873, is the second race of the Triple Crown series with 13 winners to date, the most recent being Justify in 2018. Several horses hold the fastest Preakness times in history, with records remaining unbroken for decades. Secretariat, widely considered the greatest racehorse, set the fastest record at 1:53 in 1973, becoming the first horse in over two decades to win the Triple Crown and skyrocketing to fame. Despite the official record initially being miscalculated at 1:54 2/5, a forensic review in 2012 corrected it. In 2020, Swiss Skydiver came close to Secretariat’s record with a time of 1:53.10, becoming one of the six female horses to ever win the Preakness Stakes.
Tank’s Prospect set the third-fastest time in 1985 at 1:53.4, overcoming the favorite Chief’s Crown in a thrilling finish. Despite starting the race at the back of the pack, Tank’s Prospect sprinted at the last minute to secure the victory, following a disappointing performance at the Kentucky Derby and an injury at the Belmont Stakes. In 1996, Louis Quatorze achieved a fast-paced victory, finishing the Preakness Stakes with a time of 1:53.43. Despite a disastrous finish at the Kentucky Derby, his victory at the Preakness solidified his legacy. Curlin, coming in at No. 5 in 2007, rallied from 13 lengths behind first place to defeat Kentucky Derby winner Street Sense and finish with a time of 1:53.46.
The differences between the Preakness Stakes and Belmont Stakes lie in their historical significance, timing within the Triple Crown series, and the challenges faced by racehorses in each event. The Preakness Stakes holds a prestigious place in horse racing history, with records being shattered on rare occasions. Secretariat’s record-setting performance in 1973 at the Preakness, corrected in 2012 to 1:53, remains unparalleled. Swiss Skydiver’s impressive victory in 2020 showcased the potential for new records to be set, highlighting the competitive nature of the race.
Tank’s Prospect’s unexpected win in 1985, Louis Quatorze’s redemption in 1996, and Curlin’s stunning comeback in 2007 all exemplify the unpredictable and thrilling nature of the Preakness Stakes. These racehorses overcame obstacles, such as poor performances at previous races, injuries, and falling behind in the race, to emerge victorious with some of the fastest times in Preakness history. The Preakness Stakes, as the second race of the Triple Crown, offers a unique challenge to competitors and a chance for both seasoned champions and underdogs to make their mark in horse racing history.
