2024 Preakness: Muth, Mystic Dan, and Tuscan Gold Lead
The 149th edition of the Preakness Stakes is to run this Saturday, May 18, at the historic Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Maryland. This year, the race is particularly electrifying with a lineup that includes some of the most promising three-year-olds in thoroughbred racing.
Among the standout entrants are Muth, Mystic Dan, and Tuscan Gold. These horses have demonstrated their prowess in previous races and are backed by teams of seasoned professionals who have been fine-tuning their abilities for this very moment.
Muth
Muth is owned by Zedan Racing Stables and trained by Hall of Fame trainer Bob Baffert, a name synonymous with Preakness success. He is a son of Good Magic, a notable American Thoroughbred who made history as the first horse to win his maiden race at the 2017 Breeders’ Cup Juvenile.
With Bob Baffert’s unparalleled record at the Preakness and Juan Hernandez as his jockey, who is set for his first Triple Crown race ride, Muth has been meticulously prepared. His training at Santa Anita, including a notable six-furlong work in 1:11 4/5, demonstrates his readiness.
Muth achieved a significant milestone by claiming his second major stakes victory on March 30 at the Arkansas Derby, a Grade 1 event held at Oaklawn Park. In this prestigious race, he outperformed notable competitors, including Just Steel and the Kentucky Derby winner, Mystik Dan, underscoring his capability and resilience as a top contender. This victory highlights his prowess and bolsters his standing as he heads into the Preakness.
Currently, Muth stands as the 11-1 favorite for the upcoming 2024 Preakness Stakes. His impressive track record and recent victories have significantly influenced the betting odds, reflecting strong confidence from both bettors and racing experts. As the Preakness approaches, those looking to bet on preakness 2024 might find Muth a compelling choice given his performance and the expert backing he has received.
Mystic Dan
Mystic Dan, a son of the accomplished stallion Goldencents, who is known for his strong performance in sprints and miler races, carries a lineage that mixes speed with endurance. Goldencents himself won several prestigious races, including the Breeders’ Cup Dirt Mile, making Mystic Dan’s pedigree appealing for both speed and stamina.
Mystic Dan recently won the Kentucky Derby. This demonstrates his ability to perform under pressure against top-level competition. After his win, Mystic Dan continued his training at Churchill Downs, focusing on maintaining his fitness and fine-tuning his speed. Such preparation is crucial for transitioning to the Preakness, where fierce competition exists.
Despite his strengths, like many thoroughbreds, Mystic Dan may face pacing and stamina management challenges, especially in races with fast early speeds. His ability to manage these aspects could be decisive in the Preakness.
Following his Derby win, Mystic Dan is one of the early favorites with (3-1) odds. His strong pedigree, recent top-form achievement in the Kentucky Derby, and strategic preparation under Kenny McPeek make him a formidable contender. His ability to handle different race scenarios and his resilience in tough competition are also key factors that could lead him to the winner’s circle at Pimlico.
Tuscan Gold
Tuscan Gold is a product of esteemed lineage, sired by Medaglia D’Oro, a prominent figure known for producing strong racers, and out of Valadorna, with grand-sire credentials from Curlin, another influential name in racing. This rich heritage combines the best of stamina and racing intelligence, positioning Tuscan Gold as a notable competitor with a genetic advantage for major stakes races.
Under the guidance of Chad Brown, a celebrated trainer renowned for his strategic approach to race preparation, Tuscan Gold has developed into a formidable racer. Paired with jockey Tyler Gaffalione, whose experience and skill have been crucial in navigating competitive fields, Tuscan Gold is well-equipped for success on the track.
Though in its early stages, Tuscan Gold’s racing career already boasts a victory in a Maiden Special Weight race at Gulfstream Park on January 31, 2024, where he demonstrated his potential by securing a significant win against competitive peers.
As a relatively new face in high-stakes racing, Tuscan Gold’s experience might be considered a limitation against more seasoned competitors. His ability to handle the intense atmosphere and pressure of the Preakness will be critical.
Tuscan Gold’s potential for success in the Preakness Stakes is buoyed by his excellent genetic pedigree, impressive recent performances, and the strategic preparation by renowned trainer Chad Brown. His odds are currently set at 5-1, reflecting a strong expectation from bettors and analysts alike.
Final Thoughts
In this 2024 Preakness Stakes, the focus sharpens on notable contenders Muth, Mystic Dan, and Tuscan Gold. Each brings unique strengths to the race, underscored by impressive pedigrees, expert training, and standout performances in recent outings. For those considering placing bets, it’s crucial to do so responsibly and stay informed with the most recent updates and expert insights as race day approaches.