2018 Preakness Winner and Race Overview
The 2018 Preakness Stakes was won by Justify, who secured the second leg of the U.S. Triple Crown with a commanding performance on May 19, 2018, at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Maryland. Ridden by jockey Mike Smith and trained by Bob Baffert, Justify covered the 1 3/16-mile distance on dirt in 1:54.94, prevailing by 2 1/4 lengths over runner-up Good Magic. This race marked a pivotal moment in Justify’s campaign toward becoming the 13th Triple Crown winner in history. The field featured multiple graded-stakes winners, with tactical early pace shaping the dynamics of the contest.
Official Results and Winning Margin
Below are the official finishing positions, margins, and approximate payout highlights from the 2018 Preakness Stakes. Times are final for the 1 3/16-mile distance on dirt under listed conditions.
| Position | Horse | Jockey | Trainer | Final Time | Post Position | Margin |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Justify | Mike Smith | Bob Baffert | 1:54.94 | 2 | — |
| 2 | Good Magic | Jose Lezcano | Chad Brown | 1:55.16 | 8 | 2 1/4 lengths |
| 3 | Bravazo | Junior Alvarado | Steve Asmussen | 1:55.30 | 9 | 1 length |
| 4 | Quip | Irad Ortiz Jr. | Steven M. Asmussen | 1:55.40 | 5 | 3/4 length |
| 5 | Mo Tom | Flavien Prat | Peter Miller | 1:55.81 | 3 | 1 1/4 lengths |
| 6 | Magnum Moon | Dario Vargas | Jay L. Ross | 1:56.03 | 4 | 4 1/4 lengths |
| 7 | Hofburg | John R. Velazquez | William I. Mott | 1:56.69 | 6 | 1 3/4 lengths |
| 8 | Audible | Joel Rosario | Todd A. Pletcher | 1:56.79 | 7 | 2 lengths |
| 9 | Cleburne | Manuel Franco | Brad H. Cox | 1:57.06 | 10 | 5 1/2 lengths |
Key Running Order and Pacing
- Early pace: Multiple horses pressed the pace from gates, creating a brisk first half mile.
- Midrace turn: Justify moved smoothly between horses, then drew off under firm handling.
- Final quarter: Clear separation; Good Magic made a closing run but fell short of catching Justify.
Winning Horse Profile: Justify
Justify entered the 2018 Preakness as the undefeated champion of his three-year-old season, having won the Santa Anita Derby by 2 1/4 lengths. Bred in Kentucky and owned by China Horse Club, Head of Plains Partners, and Starlight Racing, he demonstrated early talent with a debut win in a maiden special weight, followed by progressive stakes victories. His connections opted to aim for the Triple Crown after this Preakness win, which set up a decisive victory in the Belmont Stakes, completing the Triple Crown with a 1 3/4-length win.
Context for 2018: Triple Crown Ambitions and Form
Heading into the 2018 Preakness, Justify had a perfect record and was favored across the board. The field included graded stakes performers, but the tactical setup favored a front-runner when several horses engaged early. Baffert’s experience with classic contenders and Mike Smith’s precise ride allowed Justify to manage effort and respond to challenges without being pressured. The margin of victory and closing pattern underscored his growing dominance, positioning him as a legitimate Triple Crown threat.
Comparative Snapshot: 2018 Preakness Key Facts
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Winner | Justify | Official race chart |
| Jockey | Mike Smith | Equibase |
| Trainer | Bob Baffert | Equibase |
| Track | Pimlico Race Course | Official release |
| Distance | 1 3/16 miles (9.5 furlongs) | Official race record |
| Surface | Dirt | Official race record |
| Winning Time | 1:54.94 | Equibase |
| Winning Margin | 2 1/4 lengths | Official chart |
| Purse | $1,000,000 | Stakes schedule |
| Triple Crown Outcome | Won Belmont Stakes to complete Triple Crown | Equibase/Breeders’ Cup |
Post-Race Trajectory and Legacy
Following his 2018 Preakness victory, Justify continued his unbeaten campaign with a decisive win in the Belmont Stakes, securing his place as the 13th Triple Crown winner. The Preakness served as both a classic test and a platform for his emerging reputation as a top-tier performer. His connections emphasized durability and preparation, and his subsequent races validated the trip decisions made after Pimlico. In long-term retrospect, the 2018 Preakness is viewed as a defining win that clarified his elite status and near-flawless season.
FAQ
Reader questions
Who won the 2018 Preakness Stakes?
Justify won the 2018 Preakness Stakes, ridden by Mike Smith for trainer Bob Baffert.
What was the final time and margin in the 2018 Preakness?
Justify finished in 1:54.94, winning by 2 1/4 lengths over Good Magic.
Was the 2018 Preakness part of a Triple Crown attempt?
Yes, the victory was the second leg of the Triple Crown, followed by a Belmont win to complete the championship.
How did the early pace shape the race?
A brisk early pace saw multiple horses press, but Justify’s smooth acceleration and responsiveness allowed him to take command around the far turn and hold off late runners.
What notable horses finished behind Justify?
Good Magic (2nd), Bravazo (3rd), and Quip (4th) were among the prominent runners that finished behind the winner. Overall, the 2018 Preakness Stakes remains a benchmark performance for three-year-olds and a key moment in Justify’s undefeated championship season.