The 150th Kentucky Derby winner, Mystik Dan, may not participate in the upcoming 149th Preakness, potentially missing a chance for a rematch after the thrilling three-wide photo finish in the Derby. Trainer Kenny McPeek and the horse's ownership are undecided on entering Mystik Dan in the 1 3/16 mile Preakness, with a decision pending after observing the colt's condition in Saratoga, New York.
The Belmont Park, currently under reconstruction, will host the Triple Crown's final jewel for the next three years. The Belmont has been shortened to 1 1/4 mile, aligning with the Derby distance. Sierra Leone, who finished second in the Derby, will skip the Preakness to rest and prepare for the Belmont.
Other Derby contenders, such as Catching Freedom and Just A Touch, are being monitored by trainer Brad Cox before determining their next races. Meanwhile, Japan-bred horses Forever Young and T O Password are set to return home.
Despite potential absences of Derby stars, the Preakness is expected to feature well-rested horses, including potential entrants from Hall of Fame trainer Bob Baffert. Baffert could field Imagination and Muth, the latter missing the Derby due to legal issues.
Following their Derby victory, trainer McPeek and jockey Brian Hernandez Jr. celebrated a rare weekend sweep of the Derby and Kentucky Oaks. Hernandez, now part of an exclusive group of Derby-winning jockeys, is adjusting to newfound fame and attention.
As Mystik Dan calmly basked in post-Derby glory, Hernandez reflected on his life-changing win and the impact it will have on his career. The Derby victory has solidified his status as a professional jockey, fulfilling a dream that many in the sport aspire to achieve.
Overall, the Preakness promises an exciting lineup of contenders, setting the stage for another thrilling chapter in the Triple Crown series.
