Trainers to Choose Post Positions for Kentucky Derby and Preakness
- Share via
The tracks that run the Kentucky Derby and Preakness announced Tuesday that they were changing the procedure for post-position draws for those races next year.
Trainers at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., and Pimlico in Baltimore will draw numbers that will determine the order in which they can choose their positions. For instance, the trainer who draws No. 1 will have first choice of positions. Previously, the number drawn by a trainer corresponded to the post position.
“We have an obligation to promote racing, and because of our connection to ESPN, we wanted to create additional excitement and drama at the draw,” said Churchill Downs president Tom Meeker.
ESPN will televise both draws, on April 29 for the May 2 Derby, and on May 13 for the Preakness on May 16.
The traditional draw is expected to remain intact for the Belmont Stakes, the final Triple Crown race. Post positions are seldom a factor in the Belmont, which at 1 1/2 miles is the longest race in the series.
Go beyond the scoreboard
Get the latest on L.A.'s teams in the daily Sports Report newsletter.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
