Although the Kentucky Derby allows up to 20 starters, the Preakness only allows a maximum field of 14. The Derby has the simple rule of graded stakes earnings to determine who can enter, with preference given to original nominees over any supplements. The Preakness uses a three-tiered process to decide who can get in the field if more than 14 are entered and supplemental entries, which cost $100,000, are treated equally.
The first seven positions are determined by graded stakes earnings as in the Derby. The next four slots are given to the top lifetime earners in non-restricted races, so any earnings from restricted races would be subtracted from their total earnings. The final three positions are given to the horses with the most lifetime earnings regardless of the type of race, open or restricted. If there are any ties, they will draw lots from the tied horses to pick who gets in the race. Also, no horse who earns purse money in The Kentucky Derby (which is the first 5 finishers) will be denied the opportunity to start in the Preakness.
Here are the current Preakness contenders with their lifetime earnings and graded earnings. I have also indicated if they have any restricted earnings, but I didn't go look up those races to subtract it out. For most it won't be enough to make much of a difference.
2012 Preakness Entries - A field of 11 was entered for the 137th Preakness on May 19. Check out the entries, post positions, morning line odds, and info about each horse.
Analyzing the Preakness Stakes Contenders for 2012 - My annual analysis using popular angles and statistical trends to see who best matches the profile of a Preakness winner. It is no surprise that Kentucky Derby winner I'll Have Another came out on top but how did the others fare?
I'll Have Another wins the Kentucky Derby - I'll Have Another ran down pacesetter and favorite Bodemeister to win the Kentucky Derby (G1) by 1 1/2 lengths with late closing Dullahan a neck back in third. Get the results, charts, and photos here.
Preakness Entry Rules - the field is limited to 14 starters, here is how they determine the order of preference if more than that enter.
Fillies in the Preakness Stakes - a look at the 53 fillies who have run in the Preakness and how they did. So far there have been 5 wins, 5 seconds, and 8 thirds.
Preakness Infield - After the massive tightening of the rules which resulted in a huge drop in attendance in 2009, things have relaxed slightly and you can buy a special all you can drink beer Mug Club ticket.
Preakness Entry Rules
