The Preakness Stakes, the middle jewel of the Triple Crown, holds a special place in the annals of horse racing history. As the shortest race in the series, it often serves as a litmus test for the most talented and fleet-footed contenders. Over the years, some remarkable equine athletes have left an indelible mark on the Pimlico racetrack, etching their names into the record books with blazing speed and unwavering determination. In this article, we’ll embark on a journey through time to explore the fastest Preakness Stakes times, each a testament to the sheer brilliance and athleticism of these extraordinary steeds.
Fastest Preakness Stakes Times
The Preakness Stakes, known as the “Run for the Black-Eyed Susans,” stands as one of the most revered events in horse racing, and its fastest times epitomize the pinnacle of equine athleticism. Each entry on the list of the fastest Preakness Stakes times represents a convergence of extraordinary talent, unwavering determination, and the timeless pursuit of excellence. From Secretariat’s jaw-dropping display of speed to Swiss Skydiver’s daring triumph against the odds, these remarkable performances have etched their names into the annals of racing history, captivating audiences and inspiring generations of enthusiasts. As fans reflect on these iconic moments, they celebrate not only the speed and agility of the equine athletes but also the enduring spirit of competition that defines the sport of kings.
1. Secretariat (1973) – 1:53.00
Undoubtedly the most iconic name in horse racing history, Secretariat’s transcendent performance in the 1973 Preakness Stakes remains etched in the collective memory of fans worldwide. Coming off a scintillating victory in the Kentucky Derby, the chestnut colt captivated spectators once again with a jaw-dropping display of speed and power. Despite a sluggish start, Secretariat unleashed a breathtaking burst of acceleration on the first turn, surging from last to first in a matter of seconds. His final time of 1:53.00 shattered records and solidified his status as an immortal champion. Though the official clock initially read 1:55, subsequent reviews confirmed Secretariat’s unparalleled feat, cementing his legacy as the gold standard of the Triple Crown.
2. Swiss Skydiver (2020) – 1:53.28
In a sport steeped in tradition, Swiss Skydiver defied convention and left an indelible mark on Preakness history. Despite being bested in the Kentucky Oaks, this intrepid filly embarked on a daring quest to challenge the colts in the Preakness, a decision that would prove to be nothing short of genius. With grit and grace, Swiss Skydiver engaged in a thrilling stretch duel with the reigning Kentucky Derby champion, Authentic, ultimately prevailing by a neck. Her final time of 1:53.28 catapulted her into the annals of racing lore, earning her accolades as a champion 3-year-old filly and etching her name alongside the sport’s elite.
3. Tank’s Prospect (1985) – 1:53.40
Trained by the legendary D. Wayne Lukas, Tank’s Prospect emerged as a formidable contender in the 1985 Preakness Stakes. Despite a disappointing seventh-place finish in the Kentucky Derby, this son of Mr. Prospector unleashed a dazzling display of speed and determination at Pimlico. With a late surge that left spectators breathless, Tank’s Prospect surged past the favorite, Chief’s Crown, to claim victory by a head. Though his career was cut short by injury, his performance in the Preakness stands as a testament to his undeniable talent and tenacity.
4. Louis Quatorze (1996) – 1:53.40
Amidst the backdrop of adversity, Louis Quatorze emerged as a beacon of resilience and determination in the 1996 Preakness Stakes. Following a tumultuous journey marred by poor starts and traffic woes in the Kentucky Derby, this swift colt, under the guidance of trainer Nick Zito, seized redemption with unwavering resolve. Commanding the lead from the outset, Louis Quatorze blazed a trail of glory, fending off challenges from future Hall of Famer Skip Away to secure victory in one of the fastest times in Preakness history. Though his career was cut short by injury, his triumph in the Preakness stands as a testament to his indomitable spirit and unyielding pursuit of excellence.
5. Curlin (2007) – 1:53.46
In a sport defined by moments of transcendent brilliance, Curlin’s electrifying performance in the 2007 Preakness Stakes remains etched in the annals of racing history. Despite a troubled third-place finish in the Kentucky Derby, this precocious colt unleashed a breathtaking display of speed and tenacity at Pimlico. With a ferocious late surge that left spectators in awe, Curlin surged past his rivals in the final strides to claim victory in one of the most thrilling editions of the Preakness. His subsequent triumph in the Breeders’ Cup Classic cemented his status as a bona fide racing legend, leaving an indelible legacy of greatness in his wake.
6. Gate Dancer (1984) – 1:53.60
Hailing from humble beginnings at Ak-Sar-Ben Racetrack in Nebraska, Gate Dancer emerged as a shining star in the 1984 Preakness Stakes. Trained by the venerable Jack Van Berg, this son of Sovereign Dancer overcame adversity to seize victory in impressive fashion. With a determined resolve and unbridled spirit, Gate Dancer outclassed his rivals to etch his name into the annals of Preakness history. Though his career was marked by ups and downs, his triumph in the Preakness stands as a testament to his unwavering courage and unyielding pursuit of glory.
7. Summer Squall (1990) – 1:53.60
In a rivalry for the ages, Summer Squall emerged as a beacon of excellence in the 1990 Preakness Stakes. Following a narrow defeat to his arch-rival Unbridled in the Kentucky Derby, this formidable son of Storm Bird unleashed a torrent of speed and determination at Pimlico. With a decisive victory that left spectators in awe, Summer Squall stormed home to claim victory by 2 1/2 lengths, exacting sweet revenge on his chief adversary. Though his career was marked by highs and lows, his triumph in the Preakness stands as a testament to his unwavering resolve and unyielding pursuit of greatness.
8. Rombauer (2021) – 1:53.62
In a display of raw talent and unbridled determination, Rombauer blazed a trail of glory in the 2021 Preakness Stakes. Trained by the astute Michael McCarthy, this California-based colt overcame adversity to etch his name into the annals of racing history. With a breathtaking display of speed and tenacity, Rombauer surged past his rivals to claim victory by 3 1/2 lengths, leaving spectators in awe of his raw talent and unwavering resolve. Though his career was cut short by injury, his triumph in the Preakness stands as a testament to his indomitable spirit and unyielding pursuit of excellence.
Summing it Up!
In conclusion, the fastest Preakness Stakes times serve as a testament to the indomitable spirit and unwavering determination of the equine athletes that grace the hallowed grounds of Pimlico. From Secretariat’s transcendent brilliance to Rombauer’s dazzling display of speed, each performance represents a timeless ode to the pursuit of greatness. As fans eagerly await the next chapter in Preakness history, they do so with a sense of reverence for the champions who have left an indelible mark on the sport they love.
