2012 Preakness Stakes: Differences Between Preakness and Kentucky Derby

The Preakness Stakes, the second leg of horse racing's Triple Crown, may not create quite the stir that the Kentucky Derby does, but it does bring with it some subtle differences that make the race just as compelling. 

Taking place two weeks after the Derby, the thoroughbreds have little time to rest as they prepare for the Preakness. They have to adjust to the new track and conditions before arriving at post position and battle for the second most prestigious championship in horse racing. 

To get you ready for the Preakness Stakes, here are some of the differences between Pimlico Race Course and Churchill Downs. 

Length

Preakness Stakes: 1 3/16 Miles (9.5 Furlongs)

Kentucky Derby: 1 1/4 Miles (10 Furlongs)

It is not a great deal shorter than the Derby, but that extra 1/16 of a mile makes it easier for horses to go full speed right from the start. The Preakness Stakes plays much faster because everyone is allowed to jump right out of the gate as hard as they can. 

Some horses are so strong coming around the final turn that they don't have to kick into gear, but because you don't have that extra length to make up time, it is not smart to risk hanging around the pack before making a move. 

Speed of Track

Unlike the Kentucky Derby, which is based more on power than speed, depending on the weather conditions, Pimlico plays as a faster race track. 

Both courses use the same dirt around the course, but Pimlico's surface is much more firm than what you will find at Churchill Downs. As a result, the horses are able to gain better traction with their footing. This allows the horses to get better push with their legs and run faster than they normally would. 

Horses are going to run faster at Pimlico than at either Churchill Downs or the Belmont Stakes as a result. 

Less Pomp and Circumstance

One of the best parts about the Preakness is that the focus is more on the race than everything that goes into it. 

The Kentucky Derby has become so big because it is the first and most prestigious race in this country that everyone has to make a big fuss about everything that happens before the run it is exhausting waiting for it to happen. 

The Preakness Stakes comes with its own pomp and circumstance, but it is not nearly as nauseating as the Derby. Plus, it helps that we know which horse will be going for the Triple Crown, so we can get more story and information on the broadcast about that horse, since that is why everyone is watching. 

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