Sovereignty will not be participating in the Preakness Stakes this Saturday, following its recent victory at the Kentucky Derby. The decision by owner and trainer Bill Mott to skip the Preakness due to the short two-week turnaround has sparked renewed discussions on potential changes to the Triple Crown format. This marks the second instance in four years that a Derby winner will not compete for the Triple Crown, highlighting a growing trend in horse racing.
Traditionally, elite racehorses have been expected to run within tight schedules; however, modern training methods prioritize the well-being of the horses, suggesting that longer breaks between races might be more beneficial. As top trainers indicate, the decision to not push horses to compete in back-to-back races has become more common, raising questions about the current structure of the Triple Crown series.
Industry veterans, including Hall of Famer Jerry Bailey and trainer Steve Asmussen, have weighed in on the evolving landscape of horse racing. Asmussen noted, “Every horse is an individual, every year is different, and it’s just very unique circumstances,” illustrating that each racing season brings its own set of challenges and strategies.
Attendance and viewership for the Preakness have also been on the decline. Since the pandemic, average attendance has dropped significantly, raising concerns that the excitement traditionally associated with the race is waning. Hall of Famer D. Wayne Lukas remarked on how not having the Derby winner in the Preakness could deter casual fans, even if it remains significant for seasoned followers of the sport.
As discussions about potential changes to the event structure continue, various suggestions have emerged including extending the intervals between races and introducing incentives for horses to participate in all three Triple Crown events. Trainer Mark Casse has proposed a longer gap between the races to draw stronger fields, a sentiment echoed by others who believe that a considerable break would provide better care for the horses.
While some, including Bob Baffert, remain strongly in favor of maintaining the traditional schedule, the debate underlines the necessity for the racing community to adapt to changing perceptions and expectations about horse care and competition.
As the horse racing season progresses, stakeholders are hopeful that positive changes can rejuvenate interest in the Preakness and the Triple Crown, ultimately keeping the sport vibrant and engaging for a new generation of fans. By working collaboratively and considering innovative approaches, the industry can achieve a balance that honors tradition while ensuring the health and performance of its equine athletes.