With the thrilling 2025 Kentucky Derby behind us, it’s time to turn our attention to the Preakness Stakes! The second leg of the Triple Crown promises just as much speed and excitement, keeping horse racing fans on the edge of their seats. With Derby winner Sovereignty sitting out, all eyes are now on contenders like Journalism and American Promise to see who will seize the Woodlawn Vase Trophy. We’ll leave the race predictions for later — today is all about the fun facts behind this historic event. Read on to brush up on all your Preakness knowledge!
Traditions
1. Black Eyed Susans — or Are They?
The Preakness Stakes winner is traditionally draped with a blanket of Maryland’s state flower, the Black-Eyed Susan. However, since Black-Eyed Susans don’t bloom naturally until late summer or fall, race organizers use Viking daisies, which are carefully dyed to mimic the appearance of the famous flower.
2. The Most Valuable Trophy in Sports
The Kentucky Derby claims the title of “the most exciting two minutes in sports,” but the Preakness boasts “the most valuable trophy in sports.” The Woodlawn Vase Trophy, crafted by Tiffany & Co. in 1860, is valued at over $1 million. After race day, the original trophy is housed on display at The Baltimore Museum of Art, while the winning connections receive a $30,000 sterling silver replica.
3. Painting the Weather Vane
At Pimlico Race Course, a replica of the historic Old Clubhouse cupola stands proudly in the infield. Atop the replica is a horse and jockey weather vane. After each Preakness, a painter repaints the horse and jockey in the silks (colors) of the winning horse’s owner — a cherished tradition that dates back to the 1909 race.
History
1. The Start of It All
The first Preakness Stakes took place in 1873, just two years before the inaugural Kentucky Derby. That year, Survivor dominated with a 10-length victory — one of the widest winning margins in Preakness history.
2. The Third Saturday in May — Usually
The Preakness is typically run two weeks after the Kentucky Derby, falling on the third Saturday in May. However, this hasn’t always been the case. Since 1931, the traditional order has been maintained, but there were earlier years when the Preakness actually took place before the Derby.
3. Why the “Preakness”?
The race is named after a colt called Preakness, who won the Dinner Party Stakes at Pimlico’s opening event. Maryland Governor Oden Bowie officially named the Preakness Stakes in honor of the colt’s victory.
Record Performances
1. The Record Time
The legendary Secretariat holds the record time in the Preakness (and the other two legs of the Triple Crown races). His time of 1:53.00 has held firm since 1973.
2. Winning Fillies
Only six fillies have ever won the Preakness Stakes. The most recent, Swiss Skydiver in 2020, defeated Kentucky Derby winner Authentic in a thrilling stretch duel — one of the greatest upsets in recent Triple Crown history.
3. The Elusive Triple Crown
Capturing the Triple Crown is incredibly difficult. Since 1990, only nine Kentucky Derby winners have gone on to win the Preakness. Even rarer, just four horses have won the Derby and the Belmont Stakes but failed to win the Preakness, showing just how challenging this historic sweep is to achieve.
Ready for More Racing Action?
The Preakness Stakes is more than just a race — it’s a celebration of history, tradition, and unforgettable performances. Whether you’re cheering for the Preakness favorites or simply soaking in the excitement of the Triple Crown season, this race promises thrills from start to finish. Want to brush up even more before race day? Don’t miss our 10 Kentucky Derby Facts to complete your Triple Crown knowledge!
And remember, whether you’re a serious equestrian or just love the thrill of race season, FarmVet has everything you need. From race-day essentials to everyday horse care, shop FarmVet.
The facts of this blog were compiled from The Preakness and BetFirm.
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