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, although the last time it was that large was in 1992, and supplements 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 earners overall minus anything earned in a restricted race. The final three positions are given to the horses with the most earnings regardless of the type of race. Here is how the confirmed contenders stack up for eligibility. If any others decide to go, especially horses that were in the Derby, this list would of course change drastically.
Da' Tara shocks in the 2008 Belmont Stakes - Longest shot on the board Da' Tara led the whole way, drawing off to win by 5 1/4 lengths over Denis of Cork. Heavy favorite Big Brown came up empty and was eased, finishing last. Get the results, chart, and photos here.
More Belmont Day Photos - 16 more photos including Shaquille O’Neal, the unused Triple Crown trophy, and more.
Manhattan Handicap and Just a Game Stakes Results - On the Belmont undercard, Dancing Forever just got up at the wire to beat favorite Out of Control in the Manhattan Handicap, while Ventura held off top choice Lady of Venice in the Just a Game Stakes. Get the results, chart, and photos here.
Acorn Stakes, True North Handicap, and Woody Stephens Stakes Results - Also on the Belmont undercard, Zaftig upset favorite Indian Blessing in the Acorn, top choice Benny the Bull got up in the final stride of the True North Handicap, and J Be K won wire-to-wire in the Woody Stephens Stakes. Get the results, chart, and photos here.
2008 Belmont Entries - A field of 10 was entered with Big Brown drawing post #1. Get all the horses, posts, and odds here.
Preakness Entry Rules
