The Preakness Stakes is one of the most anticipated horse racing events each year, eagerly awaited by both equestrian enthusiasts and those who follow the sport casually. As the second leg of the prestigious Triple Crown series, it always offers an exciting and unforgettable spectacle. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the thrilling race that took place this year at the Pimlico Race Course and reveal the winner who took home the iconic Woodlawn Vase trophy.
What Horse Won The Preakness This Year Table of Contents
A Brief History of the Preakness Stakes
Founded in 1873, the Preakness Stakes is an annual horse race held on the third Saturday of May at the Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Maryland. It is often referred to as "The Run for the Black-Eyed Susans" because the winning horse is draped with a blanket of yellow flowers, which symbolize Maryland's state flower - the Black-eyed Susan.
The Preakness Stakes is the second jewel of the Triple Crown, following the Kentucky Derby and preceding the Belmont Stakes. Only 13 horses have ever won the coveted Triple Crown, with the most recent being Justify in 2018.
The 2021 Preakness Stakes
This year's 146th running of the Preakness Stakes took place on May 15, 2021. The race featured a field of 10 horses vying for their share of the $1 million purse and the chance to etch their names in the history books.
Going into the race, the spotlight was on the Kentucky Derby winner, Medina Spirit, who was looking to capture the second leg of the Triple Crown. However, a positive drug test from the Derby brought controversy and scrutiny, with many questioning the integrity of the win and the future of legendary trainer Bob Baffert.
The Winning Horse of the 2021 Preakness Stakes
Amidst the anticipation and spectacle, the race winner who emerged victorious was Rombauer, ridden by jockey Flavien Prat and trained by Michael W. McCarthy. Rombauer, a 12-1 underdog, made a late charge to surge past both Medina Spirit and Midnight Bourbon in the final stretch, pulling away to win by 3 1/2 lengths.
The victory marked a significant moment for both McCarthy and Prat, as it was the first Preakness Stakes win for both the trainer and the jockey. Rombauer's win also put an end to Medina Spirit's pursuit of the Triple Crown, adding to the ever-growing list of failed attempts.
Rombauer's Racing Profile
- Bred in Kentucky, Rombauer is a bay colt, sired by Twirling Candy and dammed by Cashmere
- Owners are John Fradkin and his wife, Diane
- Earnings of more than $890,000 before the Preakness Stakes, increasing to over $1.8 million following the victory
- Previous notable performance - third place in the Grade 2 Blue Grass Stakes at Keeneland in April 2021
What Horse Won The Preakness This Year Example:
In a breathtaking display of speed and strategy, Rombauer raced behind the leaders, waiting patiently until the final turn. As they approached the home stretch, Flavien Prat saw the opportunity to overtake both Medina Spirit and Midnight Bourbon, expertly guiding Rombauer along the outside. The thrilling surge to victory was an unforgettable moment, immortalizing Rombauer in the annals of Preakness Stakes history.
In conclusion, the 2021 Preakness Stakes saw Rombauer defy the odds and emerge as the winner, bringing excitement and new stories to the world of horse racing. As we congratulate Rombauer, Flavien Prat, and Michael W. McCarthy on their incredible victory, we invite you to explore more fascinating guides and articles on How to Own a Horse. Share this compelling story of triumph with fellow equestrian enthusiasts, and let us continue to celebrate the beauty and exhilaration of horse racing.
