Epicenter tops the top sportsbooks online oddsboards to win the 2022 Preakness Stakes. The Preakness Stakes is an American thoroughbred horse race. It’s held on the third Saturday in May every year at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Maryland.
It is a Grade I race. It’s run over a distance of 9.5 furlongs on dirt. Colts and geldings weigh 126 pounds (57 kg). Fillies weigh 121 pounds (55 kg). It is the so-called second jewel of the Triple Crown. It is held two weeks following the Kentucky Derby and three weeks prior to the Belmont Stakes.
The race has also been called The Run for the Black-Eyed Susans. This is because a blanket of Maryland’s state flower is placed across the withers of the winning colt or filly. Attendance at the race ranks second in North America in equestrian events. It is surpassed only by the Kentucky Derby.
The Preakness Stakes is going to be a smaller field and a shorter distance than the Kentucky Derby, which Epicenter finished second behind winner Rich Strike. But since Rich Strike will skip the Preakness Stakes, that’s one fewer thing to worry about for Epicenter. Inasmuch as a horse can be said to worry about things, that is.
Epicenter +250 (5/2)
Epicenter is the favorite at the best online sportsbooks. He ran a great race in the Kentucky Derby. After he sat in a mid-pack stalking position down the backstretch, he did angle out and split the competition to take the lead near the top of the stretch. He looked to be the winner as he approached the 16th pole. However, he was mowed down late by Rich Strike. The shorter distance will be a big advantage. His mid-race speed enables him to make a move quickly.
Secret Oath +500 (5/1)
Just because she’s a girl don’t mean nothing at the top sportsbooks online. The Kentucky Oaks champion was very impressive winning. She powered home from the top of the stretch. She appears to have the pace and the stamina. Getting the weight allowance from the colts, she must have a good chance in what seems like a high-class field for the Preakness.
Creative Minister (+500)
The Kenny McPeek-trained horse has been pegged to be supplemented for this race at a cost of $150,000. His connections must be sure this son of Creative Cause is up to the standard required. He won an allowance at Churchill Downs recently. However, this is a big jump the class ladder for McPeek’s star.
Preakness Stakes Long Shots
Could we be getting another surprise at the Preakness Stakes? Or will it be one of the top online sportsbooks-favored horses that wins? Let’s have a look-see at some of the less likely candidates who are currently listed at +1000 (10/1) or bigger.
Un Ojo +2500 (25/1)
He was a game-winner of the Rebel Stakes when he beat another Preakness contender in Ethereal Road. Also he angled inside at the far turn. He then dropped back in deep stretch. Un Ojo rallied gamely to close again. He got up right on the wire. Also he will be fresher than those who have had tough races. He could be one to bet across the board at bigger odds.
Jack Christopher (No Odds Available)
This horse is flying under the radar. He looks to be underestimated. We expect him to be an over 10/1 shot for the 2022 Preakness Stakes. We must take note he is undefeated in two Grade 1 stakes wins. Had he not being injured he may well have been a strong option for many in the Kentucky Derby.
