Preakness Stakes Post Positions: Past Winners & What History Tells Us About Starting Spots
We're looking at just how important Preakness Stakes post positions are ahead of the event, along with post position trends that might provide some insight into the best bets when scanning the odds at our best horse racing betting sites.
All eyes at the Preakness Stakes are always on the Kentucky Derby winner.
In 2024 that was Mystik Dan, who drew Post No. 5 for the Preakness before being moved to No. 4 after a scratch. He ultimately failed to keep Triple Crown odds alive while challenging winner Seize the Gray but falling short.
But Mystick Dan's starting position was still a significant factor in Preakness Stakes picks, and it impacted the Preakness Stakes odds in the process.
Below we look at the final 2024 Preakness Stakes post positions as an example, and explain starting positions while looking back on historic significance.
2024 Preakness Stakes post positions
The 2024 Preakness Stakes post-position draw took place the Monday before the race. The results of the draw are as follows, with odds via FanDuel Racing.
| Post | Horse | FanDuel odds | Morning Line odds |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mugatu | +2000 | 20-1 |
| 2 | Uncle Heavy | +2000 | 20-1 |
| 3 | Catching Freedom | +600 | 6-1 |
| 4 | OFF | Scratch | |
| 5 | Mystik Dan | +250 | 5-2 |
| 6 | Seize the Grey | +1500 | 15-1 |
| 7 | Just Steel | +1500 | 15-1 |
| 8 | Tuscan Gold | +800 | 8-1 |
| 9 | Imagination | +600 | 6-1 |
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What is post position?
Post position refers to the stall or gate number from which a horse starts a race.
In horse racing, horses are assigned a specific post position before the race begins. The post positions are typically numbered, and each horse is assigned a number that corresponds to a specific stall or gate at the starting point of the track.
The post position determines the starting location of the horse in relation to the rail and other horses. It can have an impact on the horse's race strategy, the distance it needs to travel to reach the first turn, and its chances of securing a favorable position early in the race.
How Preakness Stakes post position is determined
The post positions for the Preakness Stakes are determined through a random drawing process. The drawing usually takes place the Monday afternoon before the race.
During the drawing, a numbered pill or a marble representing each horse's entry is placed in a blind draw machine. The machine is then activated, and the pills or marbles are mixed thoroughly. The race officials or representatives from the participating horses or their connections take turns drawing the pills or marbles from the machine.
As each pill or marble is drawn, the corresponding number is assigned to the horse, determining its post position for the race. The process continues until all the post positions have been assigned to the participating horses.
This random drawing ensures fairness and prevents any bias or manipulation in determining the post positions for the Preakness Stakes.
Post position numbering system
The post position numbering system in horse racing typically follows a sequential order, starting from the inside rail and progressing outward. Here is a general description of the numbering system used for post positions:
- Inside rail: The horse starting from the stall closest to the inner rail is assigned Number 1. This position is often considered advantageous as it offers a shorter distance to the first turn.
- Next inside: The horse starting from the stall adjacent to the inside rail is assigned Number 2.
- Progression: The numbering continues in sequential order, with each subsequent horse being assigned the next available number. For example, the third horse from the inside rail would be assigned Number 3, the fourth horse would be assigned Number 4, and so on.
The highest post position number is typically determined by the number of participating horses in the race. For example, with the 2023 Preakness Stakes boasting a meager eight-horse field, entrants were numbered one through eight.
Best post position at the Preakness Stakes
The Preakness Stakes post position draw is a significant event as the starting position can impact a horse's chances of winning. However, the historical data shows that the success rate of horses in the Preakness Stakes does not necessarily follow a clear pattern based on post position (though landing an outside spot has traditionally been bad news).
Here are the number and percentage of Preakness Stakes winners from each post position since 1909, the first year a starting gate was used:
| Post position | Wins | Win rate |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 13 | 11.21% |
| 2 | 12 | 10.34% |
| 3 | 12 | 10.34% |
| 4 | 14 | 12.07% |
| 5 | 13 | 11.21% |
| 6 | 16 | 13.79% |
| 7 | 14 | 12.07% |
| 8 | 10 | 8.62% |
| 9 | 4 | 3.45% |
| 10 | 2 | 1.72% |
| 11 | 2 | 1.72% |
| 12 | 3 | 2.59% |
| 13 | 1 | 0.86% |
| 14 | 0 | 0.00% |
Though post position does mean plenty for a horse's prospects, bettors would be wise not to use it as the sole barometer for determining which wagers to make.
Worst post position at the Preakness Stakes
Only the No. 14 post position has failed to produce even a single Preakness Stakes champion, though the No. 13 spot hasn't fared much better with just one victory out of that position.
How to use post position to handicap the Preakness Stakes
Using post position to handicap the Preakness Stakes involves considering the historical performance and characteristics of horses based on their starting positions. Here are some factors to consider when using post position as a handicapping tool:
- Distance to first turn: A horse's post position can affect its proximity to the first turn. Inside post positions (closer to the rail) have a shorter distance to travel to reach the turn, which can be advantageous. Horses in outside post positions may need to cover more ground and navigate wider turns.
- Track bias: Assess the track bias for previous races at the Preakness Stakes. Some tracks tend to favor specific post positions, such as inside or outside. Consider how the track bias may impact a horse's performance from a particular post position.
- Running style: Evaluate a horse's preferred running style (front-runner, closer, or mid-pack) and how it aligns with their post position. Inside positions may be advantageous for front-runners, allowing them to secure an early lead, while outside positions can benefit closers who prefer to make late moves.
- Traffic and positioning: Consider how post position may impact a horse's ability to find clear running room and avoid traffic. Inside positions may be more prone to getting trapped on the rail or boxed in, while outside positions can offer more opportunities for maneuvering and avoiding congestion.
- Historical data: Examine past performances of horses in the Preakness Stakes based on their post positions. Look for trends or patterns that indicate a higher likelihood of success or struggles from specific starting positions.
It's important to note that post position is just one factor among many to consider when handicapping a race. It should be used in conjunction with other relevant information, such as a horse's form, jockey, trainer, class, and recent performances, to make informed betting decisions.
Preakness Stakes post position FAQs
Who was the 2024 Preakness Stakes favorite?
Mystik Dan is a 5-2 (+250) favorite to win the Preakness Stakes. Those odds implied a 28.57% win probability and a winning $10 bet would return a profit of $25.
Who won the 2024 Preakness Stakes?
Seize the Grey took the 2024 Preakness Stakes after entering as a +1500 long shot.
When is the Preakness Stakes held?
The 2024 edition of the Preakness Stakes was held on May 18, 2024.
Where is the 2024 Preakness Stakes held?
The Preakness Stakes is held annually at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore.
What is the best Preakness Stakes post position?
Historically, the No. 6 spot has been the best post position for the Preakness Stakes, producing 16 winners.
What is the worst Preakness Stakes post position?
The 14 spot is the only post position that has yet to produce a Preakness Stakes champion, while the No. 13 position has featured just one winner (Rachel Alexandra in 2009).
How are post positions determined in the Preakness Stakes
Post positions for the Preakness Stakes are determined by a random drawing on the Monday before the race. The draw is conducted in public and attended by trainers, owners, jockeys, and other officials.
Where can I bet on the 2024 Preakness Stakes?
According to TwinSpires, Americans can legally wager on horse racing in the following states, and don't forget to check out our FanDuel Racing promo code:
Horse racing betting odds pages
| Kentucky Derby Odds | Preakness Stakes Odds | Belmont Stakes Odds |
| Kentucky Derby Post Position | Preakness Stakes Post Position | Belmont Stakes Post Position |
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