John Velazquez filled in the last significant gap in his Hall of Fame career by winning the Preakness, also earning Jockeys’ Guild jock of the week honors.
With a win in the James Murphy Stakes and other strong performances, trainer Graham Motion earned the top Pimlico weekend trainer bonus.
Faiza, undefeated in California, will put her spotless record on the line in Friday’s Grade 2 Black-Eyed Susan Stakes at Pimlico.
Saturday’s Grade 3 Gallorette on the turf at Pimlico has attracted an evenly matched field of turfing fillies and mares.
Longtime Maryland Horse Breeders Association chief Cricket Goodall has been named the honorary postmaster for Preakness 148.
Federico Tesio Stakes winner Perform had his final move in advance of the May 20 Preakness, and trainer Shug McGaughey pronounced himself “very pleased.”
Maryland Racing Commission chairman Michael Algeo will be honored with a special award of merit from the Maryland Jockey Club.
Miracle Wood winner Coffeewithchris will take a swing at the May 20 Preakness Stakes, while Confidence Game was withdrawn from consideration.
Derby winner Mage galloped at Churchill Downs, while First Mission had his final breeze in preparation for the May 20 Preakness.
Preakness-bound Blazing Sevens breezed five furlongs in 1:00 Saturday, and trainer Chad Brown pronounced it a “super” final move before the race.