Preakness 2011

Saturday marks the 136th running of the Preakness Stakes, the middle jewel of horse racing’s Triple Crown. Animal Kingdom scored an upset in the Kentucky Derby at 21-1, but this handicapper had him tapped as a top contender, and 2nd choice overall. Can he win again in Baltimore, and head to the Belmont as racing’s Next Great Hope?

Racing in Maryland is dying. The Preakness has pretty much become the only meaningful day in a state rich with thoroughbred tradition. Still, over the past decade, the Preakness has emerged as the key race among the three Triple Crown events. While the Derby has produced a string of winners that went on to accomplish little else (Giacomo, Mine That Bird, Super Saver), the Preakness has produced a host of champions that include Rachel Alexandra, Curlin, Afleet Alex, Bernardini, and Lookin at Lucky. Lately, the Preakness has not been producing flukes.