Journalism's Preakness Triumph: From Derby Second To Victory Lane

David

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Post on May 19, 2025

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Journalism's Preakness Triumph: From Derby Second to Victory Lane

National Treasure, Rich Strike's younger brother, secures a stunning victory at Pimlico Race Course, defying pre-race odds and cementing his place in racing history.

The 148th Preakness Stakes delivered a thrilling upset, with National Treasure, the younger brother of the 2022 Kentucky Derby winner Rich Strike, storming to victory. His win comes after a strong second-place finish in the Kentucky Derby, solidifying his status as a rising star in the world of thoroughbred racing. The race, held at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Maryland, was a testament to the horse's resilience and the skill of his jockey, John Velázquez.

This unexpected triumph wasn't just a win for the horse; it was a victory for the narrative of perseverance and the power of sibling rivalry within the thoroughbred racing world. While Rich Strike's underdog story captivated audiences last year, National Treasure's journey has been one of steadily building momentum and overcoming the pressure of living in the shadow of his famous brother.

From Derby Near-Miss to Preakness Glory

National Treasure's performance at the Kentucky Derby, where he finished a close second to Mage, set the stage for his Preakness success. Many racing analysts saw this near-miss as a sign of his potential, hinting at a future brimming with victories. This performance, coupled with his impressive training and pedigree, made him a contender, but few predicted a Preakness win against such strong competition.

The Preakness itself was a nail-biter. National Treasure faced stiff competition from several other top contenders, including the Kentucky Derby winner Mage. The race unfolded in a dramatic fashion, with several horses vying for the lead throughout the final stretch. Ultimately, National Treasure's superior speed and strategic jockeying by Velázquez propelled him to victory, crossing the finish line with a commanding lead.

A Legacy in the Making?

National Treasure's Preakness win marks a significant moment not only for the horse but also for his trainer, Bob Baffert, who has a long and storied history of success in horse racing. Baffert's experience and strategic prowess played a crucial role in National Treasure's training and preparation for the race. His victory adds another chapter to Baffert's illustrious career, which includes multiple Kentucky Derby and Preakness wins. This win also positions Baffert for a potential Triple Crown bid later this year.

The win also raises intriguing questions about the future of thoroughbred racing and the legacy of the Rich Strike lineage. Could National Treasure go on to win the Belmont Stakes and achieve the coveted Triple Crown? Only time will tell. But one thing is certain: National Treasure’s Preakness victory has cemented his place in racing history and ignited excitement for what promises to be a remarkable career.

Key takeaways:

• Upset Victory: National Treasure defied expectations to win the Preakness Stakes.
• Sibling Rivalry: The win highlights the compelling narrative of sibling rivalry in horse racing, following his brother Rich Strike's Kentucky Derby triumph.
• Strategic Jockeying: John Velázquez's strategic riding played a key role in National Treasure's victory.
• Trainer's Expertise: Bob Baffert's experience contributed significantly to the horse's success.
• Future Potential: National Treasure's win raises the anticipation for a potential Triple Crown bid.

Related articles:

• [Link to an article about the Kentucky Derby]
• [Link to an article about Bob Baffert's career]
• [Link to an article about the history of the Preakness Stakes]

This victory is a testament to the excitement and unpredictability of horse racing, reminding us that even the most carefully laid plans can be surpassed by the sheer power of athleticism and a little bit of luck. National Treasure’s journey is far from over, and we can only wait with bated breath to see what this remarkable horse achieves next.