The historic 151st running of the Preakness Stakes returns Saturday, May 16 to Laurel Park as the Middle Jewel of the Triple Crown, featuring some of the world’s finest Thoroughbreds competing for the legendary Woodlawn Vase. Known as the “Run for the Black-Eyed Susans,” the race takes its nickname from the blanket of black-eyed Susan flowers draped over the winner, symbolizing Maryland tradition and spring racing season. Enjoy our Preakness preview featuring fun facts, top horse picks, and the recipe for the race’s signature Black-Eyed Susan cocktail.
We are excited about the race and there are several solid choices coming down the stretch. Narrowing down to three picks that we think will hit the board are Iron Honor — The morning-line favorite with strong workouts and major buzz entering the race. Taj Mahal — Starlight Racing’s gem of a horse who is undefeated at Laurel Park and a strong local favorite. And Incredibolt — A talented closer with solid odds and plenty of betting support.
Interesting Preakness Facts
- The Preakness Stakes began in 1873, making it older than the Kentucky Derby.
- It is the second jewel of horse racing’s Triple Crown.
- The race is traditionally run at Pimlico Race Course, though the 2026 race is temporarily at Laurel Park during renovations.
- The race distance is 1 3/16 miles — slightly shorter than the Derby.
- Secretariat set the Preakness speed record in 1973.
- The winner receives a blanket made of more than 1,000 black-eyed Susan flowers.
- No Triple Crown is possible this year because Kentucky Derby winner Golden Tempo is skipping the race.
- This year’s field has 14 horses, the largest in 15 years.
- The race is often called “The People’s Race” because fans are so close to the action.
- Legendary trainer Bob Baffert holds the modern record for Preakness wins with 8.
Black Eyed Susan Cocktail Recipe
Enjoy this tasty and refreshing mix of bourbon, vodka and fruit juices that has become the official drink of the Preakness Stakes. There are different variations that don’t include the bourbon, or just the vodka, but with our roots based here in Kentucky, the bourbon is a must! Enjoy
Serving Size: 1 Cocktail
Ingredients:
- 1 ounce bourbon whiskey
- 1 ounce vodka
- 1 ounce peach schnapps
- 2 ounces orange juice
- 2 ounces sour mix
- Orange slice, for garnish
- Cherry, for garnish
Directions:
- In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, pour the bourbon, vodka, peach schnapps, orange juice, and sour mix and shake it well.
- Strain over crushed ice (preferred) into a tall glass.
- Garnish with an orange slice or pinapple, and a cherry. Sit back and watch your Preakness pick cross the finish line first!
