Velasquez wins first Preakness with National Treasure

Jockey John Velasquez won his first Preakness Stakes when he guided the Bob Baffert-trained 5-2 second choice National Treasure to victory in Saturday's 148th running of the event over 9 and a half furlongs at the Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Maryland.

National Treasure led for most of the way and held off a late charge from Blazing Sevens down the stretch as Kentucky Derby winner and 7-5 favourite Mage ended up in third. Trainer Baffert was winning the Preakness for the 8^th time.

The final jewel of the triple crown, the Belmont Stakes is set for June 10.