Preakness Stakes draw announced with Kentucky Derby winner Golden Tempo excluded
The field of 14 runners for the Saturday race was determined by random selection, while the Belmont Stakes remains the sole focus for the Derby champion
The draw for the Preakness Stakes, the second leg of the American Triple Crown, was officially announced on Monday. The starting order for the 14 runners has been released, with positions determined by a random selection process. The race is scheduled to take place on Saturday at 7:01 p.m. ET.
Notably, the field does not include Golden Tempo, the winner of the Kentucky Derby. Trainer Cherie DeVaux confirmed the withdrawal, citing health concerns that arose following the horse's performance in the Derby. The decision was made to prioritise the animal's health, happiness, and long-term future rather than attempting to run in this event.
DeVaux stated that Golden Tempo provided the race of a lifetime in the Kentucky Derby and requires additional recovery time following such a tremendous effort. Specific medical details regarding the condition have not been disclosed beyond the general statement of health concerns.
Despite the absence from the Preakness, plans are in place for Golden Tempo to compete in the Belmont Stakes. The third and final leg of the Triple Crown is scheduled to take place on 6 June. This arrangement provides the horse with approximately one month of rest between the Derby and the Belmont.
The remaining 14 horses were selected by random draw for the Saturday race. The official starting order lists Taj Mahal with jockey Sheldon Russell in the first position, followed by Ocelli with Tyler Gaffalione, Crupper with Junior Alvarado, and Robusta with Rafael Bejarano.
Further down the grid, Talkin will ride with Irad Ortiz Jr, while Chip Honcho is paired with Jose Ortiz. The Hell We Did will be ridden by Luis Saez, Bull By The Horns by Micah Husbands, and Iron Honor by Flavien Prat.
The field continues with Napoleon Solo and jockey Paco Lopez, Corona de Oro with John Velazquez, Incredibolt with Jaime Torres, Great White with Alex Achard, and Pretty Boy Miah with Ricardo Santana Jr. The draw ensures a structured starting order for the upcoming event.
