Goldencents — the Santa Anita Derby winner who finished 17th in the Kentucky Derby as the 7.90-1 third choice — will be first in at least one regard this Triple Crown season: he was the first Preakness contender to arrive at Pimlico when he and his entourage showed up in the wee small hours of the morning today…
The field is taking shape but continuing to fluctuate significantly. Churchill allowance winner Bellarmine was in, but now he’s out. D. Wayne Lukas’ Titletown Five is in. From the Derby, it appears that, in addition to Orb and Goldencents, Oxbow, Mylute, Will Take Charge, and Itsmyluckyday are under strong consideration. Also possible are Normandy Invasion and Vyjack.
In addition to Titletown Five, potential new shooters include Sunland Park Derby winner Govenor Charlie and Illinois Derby winner Departing in a field that may continue to grow…
Orb is expected to ship to Pimlico on May 14 in his attempt to add the Preakness to his resume and ultimately become the 12th Triple Crown winner…
Weatherwise, it’s expected to be rainy most of this week. That won’t have any impact on Preakness weekend but does make it pretty likely that turf racing will be limited between now and then — the racing office isn’t likely to take any chances on tearing up the grass course before the G2 Dixie and other major races…
