Kentucky Derby winner Golden Tempo won't run in the Preakness
AP News • • general
Key Points:
- Kentucky Derby winner Golden Tempo will skip the Preakness Stakes next weekend, with trainer Cherie DeVaux and owners opting to prepare for the Belmont Stakes on June 6 at Saratoga Race Course.
- DeVaux cited the colt's health and the need for more recovery time after the Derby as primary reasons for skipping the Preakness, emphasizing Golden Tempo's long-term well-being as a priority.
- This marks the third Derby winner in five years not entered in the Preakness, contributing to ongoing debates about the traditional two-week gap between the Derby and Preakness being too short for modern thoroughbreds.
- Maryland racing officials are considering moving the Preakness to the fourth Saturday in May to improve participation from Derby horses, as none of the 18 Derby runners this year are entered in the Preakness.
- The Preakness will be held at Laurel Park this year due to renovations at Pimlico Race Course, which is undergoing major reconstruction to become Maryland's year-round racing venue starting next year.
