A Preakness Trifecta

Here's the way I see it. Use this information to figure out how not to bet the race.

1. Curlin: Even though he hasn't emerged (yet) as the super horse everyone wanted him to be, his 3rd place finish in the Derby was real nice. So-called super horses are usually smart ones, and I think this is the race where we'll really find out the deal on Curlin. He may have learned a thing or two. The hype and the buzz has been suspiciously quiet. Remember, the only horse to get a better trip in the Derby than Street Sense was Hard Spun. This is Curlin's race. He wins.

2. Street Sense: Is it possible for Street Sense to get a clean trip on the rail again? I doubt it. Larry Jones will lose it if that happens. He's already waking up nightly in a cold sweat. I think he'll either drop back to last or get carried wide into the first turn. His big kick should be enough for 2nd.

3. Circular Quay: The Derby was the first race where this guy didn't go off as the post time chalk. And despite the "poor" performance, he did rally for a 6th place finish and earned a respectable 96 speed rating. I look for him to pick up the pieces and rally for 3rd.

King of the Roxy should hang on for 4th after taking control around the turn but fading. The speed Hard Spun and Xchanger will set nice fractions 1-2 down the backstretch but will set things up for the stalkers and closers here.

Flying First Class, C P West and Mint Slewlep will probably be nice horses but not here.