Golden Tempo to Skip Preakness Stakes, Aiming for Belmont Glory
The Kentucky Derby winner, Golden Tempo, will not be participating in the Preakness Stakes this year, opting for a five-week rest before aiming for the Belmont Stakes. Trainer Cherie DeVaux made the announcement, prioritizing Golden's well-being and long-term future. This decision gives competitors time to adjust their strategies for the upcoming races.
Golden Tempo's impressive performance in the Kentucky Derby led to the decision to skip the Preakness and focus on the Belmont Stakes. Trainer DeVaux expressed excitement for Golden's future and the upcoming challenges that lie ahead for the talented horse.
In a similar move, the 2025 Derby winner, Sovereignty, also chose to bypass the Preakness and went on to win the Belmont, Jim Dandy, Travers, and earn Horse of the Year honors. These decisions showcase the importance of careful planning and consideration for the well-being of the horses in the Triple Crown series.
The Triple Crown series is undergoing significant changes, with the Preakness moving to Laurel Racecourse this year while Pimlico is being rebuilt. The Belmont Stakes is currently hosted at Saratoga as Belmont Park undergoes renovations. Additionally, Churchill Downs Inc. now holds the intellectual property rights to the Preakness, influencing the future of the iconic racing series.
In conclusion, the Kentucky Derby winner, Golden Tempo, will sit out the Preakness Stakes to focus on the Belmont Stakes after a remarkable performance. Trainer Cherie DeVaux's decision prioritizes Golden's health and long-term success, setting the stage for an exciting journey ahead in the Triple Crown series.