As the Preakness Stakes approaches, the absence of Kentucky Derby winner Golden Tempo has left the field wide open for a new favorite to emerge. Could it be Crude Velocity, the impressive three-time winner who dominated the Pat Day Mile at Churchill Downs? Or perhaps Ocelli, the longshot maiden who surprised everyone with a third-place finish in the Derby? The Preakness is shaping up to be an exciting race with no clear frontrunner.
For savvy handicappers, this lack of a star horse in the field presents a unique opportunity for a betting bonanza. With no Triple Crown possibility and a field devoid of Grade 1 winners, the Preakness offers the chance for bettors to make a big score on a race with unpredictable outcomes. Last year's thrilling finish between Journalism and Gosger is a reminder that anything can happen on race day.
As we await the post-position draw and morning-line odds, let's take a closer look at some of the top contenders for the Preakness. Crude Velocity, trained by Bob Baffert, is coming off a strong performance in the Pat Day Mile and could be the early favorite. Baffert, a Preakness veteran with eight wins under his belt, knows how to prepare a horse for success in this prestigious race.
Another contender to watch is Chip Honcho, who was withdrawn from Derby consideration but has been steadily preparing for the Preakness with solid performances in the Gun Runner Stakes and other prep races. Trainer Steve Asmussen has high hopes for Chip Honcho, who is well-rested and ready to make a big impact on race day.
Then there's Ocelli, the unlikely maiden who defied the odds to finish third in the Derby. While it's rare for a maiden to win the Preakness, Ocelli's performance has caught the attention of many and he is expected to be among the top betting choices for the race. Trainer Whit Beckman is confident in Ocelli's abilities and believes he has what it takes to compete at the highest level.
With the Preakness set to take place at Laurel Park for the first time, the race promises to be an exciting and unpredictable affair. Without a clear-cut favorite in a field of talented contenders, bettors will have to carefully consider their options and choose their betting strategies wisely. The lack of star power in this year's Preakness only adds to the intrigue and excitement surrounding the race.