The Drama of the 2025 Preakness Stakes
The Kentucky Derby has long been celebrated as the most thrilling two minutes in sports, and this year was no exception. Despite tough weather conditions and a muddy track, the Derby was a roaring success, culminating in the victory of Sovereignty. Fans were treated to dramatic finishes, but the anticipation didn’t stop there. Many were eager to see a rematch between Sovereignty and the pre-race favorite, Journalism, at the Preakness Stakes. However, disappointment loomed when trainer Bill Mott announced that Sovereignty wouldn’t compete in the Preakness, leaving fans and analysts questioning what was next for the Derby champion.
The Uncertainty Surrounding Journalism
Adding to the uncertainty, even Journalism’s participation was in limbo as late as May 11. Trainer Michael McCarthy had kept everyone guessing, but a decisive practice changed everything. Journalism’s team took a leap of faith, hoping for a sign that their horse was ready to run again. That sign came through a promising Sunday morning session. President of Eclipse Thoroughbred Partners, Aron Wellman, shared their excitement: “We wanted him to tell us that he was ready to go to Baltimore.” Following this practice, Monday morning saw Journalism opened as an 8-5 favorite for the Preakness Stakes.
Shadows of the Past Race
Even with the fresh momentum, echoes of the Kentucky Derby hung heavy in the air. Though Journalism had placed second, trainer McCarthy remained incredibly optimistic. He reiterated his confidence in Journalism, noting that the horse had been “pinched at the start” during the Derby, hindering his performance. Reflecting on the muddy conditions, McCarthy said, “It came down to a muddy track or a clean trip. I’d rather have the clean trip,” acknowledging that the lack of experience on such a surface had made a significant difference.
Behind the Confidence
Both the trainer and the owners exuded confidence in Journalism’s abilities post-Derby. Wellman remarked that the three-year-old colt showed all the right signs, including heightened energy and a positive attitude. The team remained optimistic about their chances, hoping that this second chance would lead to greater results at the Preakness. Their enthusiasm resonated with fans, who were eager to witness how Journalism would perform under different conditions.
The What-Ifs of a Rematch
The absence of Sovereignty from the Preakness altered the anticipated rivalry, leaving many fans yearning for a rematch. The close finish at the Kentucky Derby fueled speculation about how a face-off between these two champions might transpire in the future. McCarthy hinted at a potential showdown, stating, “If Sovereignty stays healthy, Journalism stays healthy… It would be great for the fans and sport. I would love it.” This statement symbolizes the kind of excitement that makes horse racing captivating; you never know when past champions might collide again.
The Muddy Conditions
Reflecting on their previous performances, even jockey Umberto Rispoli whispered sentiments of regret. He felt that mud played a decisive role in the outcome, as he hadn’t navigated Journalism in such conditions before. “Just to swallow the pill better, I would fight him on the better ground,” he suggested, highlighting the importance of favorable conditions in a race where every detail counts.
The Road Ahead
Challenges remain even with Journalism’s newfound momentum. The Preakness Stakes will not merely be a walk in the park. Competitors like Sandman, who finished 7th in the Derby, and American Promise, who placed 15th, are also eyeing the prize. Adding to the excitement, the legendary Bob Baffert is making his return with Goal Oriented, an undefeated contender. The stage is set for a high-stakes showdown, promising a Preakness filled with drama and fierce competition.
The Thrill of Anticipation
With all these elements in play, the 2025 Preakness Stakes is shaping up to be a remarkable spectacle. The atmosphere is electric with conversations about potential rematches, the influence of weather on outcomes, and the overall unpredictability that horse racing offers. Spectators are eager to see how the narrative unfolds as these magnificent horses take to the track, each with ambitions of glory and the storied legacy of the Triple Crown hanging in the balance.
