Preakness Gambling Features Tale of Two Mounts

Two of the favorites in early betting and gambling on the horse race, Rachel Alexandra and Mine That Bird, both have compelling stories, revolving around the jockey that has taken them both to greatness.

This year's Preakness Stakes plays out for gambling patrons as a twist on Dickens: it was the best of times, it was the best of times. Two of the favorites in early betting and gambling on the horse race, Rachel Alexandra and Mine That Bird, both have compelling stories, revolving around the jockey that has taken them both to greatness.

Mine That Bird won the Kentucky Derby two weeks ago as the biggest underdog since World War I, a 50-1 jackpot. The race featured what may arguably be considered the best ride in Derby history, as jockey Calvin Borel took Bird from dead last, thirty lengths back, on a daring dash along the rail to win.

Filly Rachel Alexandra may be the horse of the year. Because fillies are rarely matched in the biggest races against males, Rachel was consigned to the Kentucky Oaks the day before the Derby, with Borel on board, and won by an astounding twenty lengths.

After some grumbling among owners that they would fill the Preakness field with other horses to block an entry by Rachel Alexandra, the filly has been entered. Borel will honor his long-standing commitment to ride her, leaving Mine That Bird to respected veteran Mike Smith.

Rachel Alexandra enters as a 5-4 favorite to win the event, but drew the far outside starting position, not generally considered a desirable spot. Pioneer of the Nile, the place horse in the Derby, is second choice at 4-1. Mine That Bird is listed at 5-1, causing some observers to wonder what his odds would be if Borel were in saddle.

One way or another, Saturday's race should provide for a fascinating storyline.