Mugatu races against the odds at the Preakness Stakes
BALTIMORE - Mugatu has long odds of winning this weekend's Preakness Stakes at Pimlico Race Course.
But, that doesn't mean trainer Jeff Engler is throwing in the white flag.
Mugatu is a 20-1 underdog in the eight-horse field.
Mugatu comes from a relatively modest operation compared to the big shots in the business.
"Small barns don't get the million dollar horses, so for us to participate in a Triple Crown race with a $14,000 purchase is really special and it's obviously special for all our help and everybody at the small tracks," Engler said. "It's a dream and when it happens you just have to enjoy it."
Engler works with a small number of horses, and Mugatu's ownership group goes by the name "Average Joe Racing Stable."
The horse has one win in 12 career starts. He was purchased at a low price, but will attempt to cash in big against the elites on Saturday.
Mugatu will start at the No. 1 gate along the rail.
Engler says the strategy is to lay back at the start and then finish with a late charge.
Kentucky Derby winner Mystik Dan is the odds-on favorite to win the Preakness.
Post time is 6:50 p.m.
Here's what you need to know about the Preakness Stakes.