PREAKNESS PROFILE: MIDNIGHT BOURBON
Gary Quill- May 14, 2021
Wise-guy horse Midnight Bourbon was sixth in the Kentucky Derby after a wide journey for trainer Steve Asmussen. The Hall of Famer owns two prior Preakness wins, with Curlin in 2007 and the filly Rachel Alexandra in 2009.
Irad Ortiz, Jr. will have the mount. Ortiz, one of the nation’s top riders, has not won in three prior Preakness mounts.
5. MIDNIGHT BOURBON (5-1)
- TRAINER: STEVE ASMUSSEN
- JOCKEY: IRAD ORTIZ JR.
- LIFETIME RECORD: 8-2-2-3
- MOST RECENT RACE: 6TH, GRADE I KENTUCKY DERBY
GQ SAYS
Getting to the lead supposedly was the plan in the KY Derby, but when the gates opened, the Asmussen trainee hesitated just slightly, which was enough to miss the opportunity to sprint clear of rivals. Instead “Bourbon” found himself mid-pack for the first time in his eighth career start. Though in an unfamiliar position throughout the race as well as racing six-wide entering the stretch, he showed late interest to give his trainer thoughts of redemption in Baltimore. Without Midnight Bourbon setting the early pace, it allowed Baffert’s eventually Derby winner to cruise alone on the lead the entire trip. Jockey Mike Smith, who rode this one in Louisville, jumps ship today to rider Concert Tour.
- Laurel Park cancels all weekend racingLaurel Park will cancel all three days of live racing this weekend, and its three Saturday stakes will return as extras for Friday, Nov. 29.
VIDEO PAST PERFORMANCES
| Midnight Bourbon (KY) / T: Steve Asmussen |
| O: Winchell Thoroughbreds LLC |
| 05/01/2021 6 — Kentucky Derby (CD) |
| 03/20/2021 2 — Louisiana Derby (FG) |
| 02/13/2021 3 — Risen Star (FG) |
| 01/16/2021 1 — Lecomte S. (FG) |
| 10/10/2020 3 — Champagne S. (BEL) |
| 09/05/2020 2 — Iroquois S. (CD) |
- “Bittersweet moment” as Hessica hits retirementTwo-time WVBC Cavada winner Hessica couldn’t get one last win, settling for second November 9, but she’s had quite a career for owner-trainer Kristy Petty.
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