Mystik Dan’s Quest for Glory Continues: Preakness Stakes Preview
The thrilling victory of Mystik Dan at the Kentucky Derby on May 7, 2023, marked a significant upset as the three-year-old colt outran Sierra Leone and Forever Young in an astonishing photo-finish at Churchill Downs. With his triumphant win, Mystik Dan has captured the attention of horse racing enthusiasts and sports fans worldwide, as he is now the favorite to claim the prestigious Triple Crown title by winning the Preakness Stakes on May 20, 2023, and the Belmont Stakes on June 8, 2023.
Triple Crown Contender: Mystik Dan at Preakness Stakes
Mystik Dan’s Kentucky Derby triumph has put him in the history books as the 10th horse to win by a nose and the first since Grindstone in 1996. The eventual winner hit the front as the field turned for home, just holding off Sierra Leone and Forever Young to cross the finish line almost together. This narrow victory was described by NBC’s broadcast as the closest three-horse photo finish since 1947, and jockey Brian Hernandez Jr. later commented that “the longest few minutes I’ve ever felt in my life waiting for them to hang that number above us.”
Broadcast Information and Schedule
Coverage of the 148th Preakness Stakes begins at 4:30 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock. The race itself is scheduled to start at 7:01 p.m. ET. NBCSports.com and the NBC Sports app will also provide live streaming access for those unable to watch on television.
Mystik Dan’s Triumphant Derby Victory
Entering the Kentucky Derby at 18-1 odds, Mystik Dan secured a remarkable win after an incredibly close finish. The Derby’s official statement revealed that it was “the closest three-horse photo finish since 1947,” and jockey Brian Hernandez Jr. expressed his excitement and uncertainty as he waited for the official result.
The Absence of Initial Favorite Muth
Muth, initially favored to win the Kentucky Derby, was ruled out due to a spiking fever. Unfortunately for Muth, this is the second high-profile race it has missed this year following Mystik Dan’s ineligibility to compete in the Kentucky Derby due to trainer Bob Baffert’s ongoing ban at Churchill Downs.
Mystik Dan’s Odds and Competition
According to CBS Sports, 49% of favorites have won the Preakness Stakes since its inception in 1873. Mystik Dan faces strong competition from Catching Freedom and Imagination, but as demonstrated by his triumphant Kentucky Derby performance, any of the eight horses could potentially take the win.
Assistant Trainer Ray Bryner’s Confidence in Mystik Dan
Mystik Dan’s assistant trainer, Ray Bryner, has expressed confidence in the colt’s ability to win at Pimlico Race Course. The assistant trainer praised Mystik Dan for his natural talent and calm demeanor, stating that he “can switch it on and off like a key in an ignition.”
Conclusion: Mystik Dan’s Triple Crown Quest
As the Preakness Stakes looms, all eyes are on whether Mystik Dan can continue his winning streak and bring the Triple Crown title back to the barn. With strong competition and challenging odds, this year’s race promises an exhilarating conclusion to a thrilling horse racing season.
