As the anticipation builds for the Preakness Stakes, the future of GI Kentucky Derby champion Sovereignty (by Into Mischief) remains uncertain. However, recent reports indicate that the talented colt continues to impress his team with his recovery following a grueling duel with Journalism (by Curlin) last Saturday. A decision regarding Sovereignty’s participation in the Preakness is expected to be made soon.
Since his remarkable victory in the Spring marquee race, Sovereignty has reportedly shown no signs of distress and has thrived in his return to training. Michael Banahan, director of bloodstock for Godolphin, shared insights with Steve Byk on his Monday morning satellite radio show, indicating that a decision about the colt’s prospects for the Preakness would likely be made “in the next couple of days.”
Banahan emphasized the importance of the Triple Crown, stating, “We fully respect what the Triple Crown means for the industry, for racing in America. Most importantly, the decision will be made to do what's best for the horse.” He noted that while Sovereignty appeared to have come out of the race well, he did sustain a scrape on his pastern that required treatment. The team will monitor his energy levels closely as they assess his readiness for the next race.
Trainer Bill Mott will play a crucial role in determining Sovereignty's future. He will evaluate how the horse responds to treatment and how the team perceives his overall condition. Banahan mentioned that they won’t delay their decision for long, as timely placement is essential should they opt to enter him in the Preakness.
In other news regarding the upcoming Preakness, trainer Bob Baffert is considering sending more horses to Pimlico than just Rodriguez (by Authentic), who was scratched from the Kentucky Derby due to a minor foot bruise. Baffert postponed the trip back to California to monitor track and weather conditions after several days of rain.
Baffert confirmed, “We're planning on going with Rodriguez. Citizen Bull, the 2-year-old champion who finished 15th, I doubt if I'm taking him.” However, he acknowledged that he has changed his mind about horses in the past, which could affect Citizen Bull's status leading up to the Preakness.
Regarding Rodriguez, Baffert reassured fans that the colt’s foot is now in good condition. He stated, “It was one of those things. We can't run a horse over a track like that when the bruise is fresh.” Additionally, another promising horse, Goal Oriented (by Not This Time), is being considered for the Listed Sir Barton Stakes following a stylish allowance victory on the Derby undercard.
Also in the mix is American Promise (by Justify), confirmed by trainer D. Wayne Lukas to be pointed towards the Preakness. After a difficult trip where Lukas believes his horse was compromised twice, American Promise finished 16th, but the trainer is hopeful for a strong comeback in pursuit of a record-tying eighth victory for his stable.
Additionally, the talented Gosger (by Nyquist), winner of the GII Stonestreet Lexington Stakes, is under consideration for the Preakness. The horse, a grandson of Arch's Gal Edith, worked impressively five-eighths on May 1 in 1-minute flat. Following his recent win at Keeneland, Lukas expressed that while entering the Preakness wasn’t initially part of their plans, they are now giving it serious consideration.
As the Preakness Stakes approaches, the horse racing community eagerly awaits updates on Sovereignty and other contenders. With critical evaluations underway and a focus on the welfare of the horses, fans can expect thrilling developments in the lead-up to this prestigious race.
