Bodog Beat

Rachel Alexandra lived up to her star billing, becoming the first filly in 85 years to win the Preakness Stakes. (AP Images)

Rachel Alexandra became the first filly since 1924 to win the second jewel in US horse racing's Triple Crown, holding off a charge by Kentucky Derby-winner Mine That Bird.

Calvin Borel had piloted +5000 favored Mine That Bird to the Kentucky Derby triumph, but elected to switch to Rachel Alexandra for the one million dollar Preakness when new owner Jess Jackson decided to test her against colts.

This time Mine That Bird's charge fell short by one length.

Rachel Alexandra went off as the +180 favorite in the 13-horse field, and became the first horse to win the Preakness from the number 13 post.

She paid $5.60, $4.60, and $3.60. Mine That Bird returned $6.60 and $4.80, while Musket Man paid $5 to show.

The winner earned US$660,000 from the purse of $1.1 million. The third jewel in the Triple Crown is next! Get your Belmont Stakes odds today.