Kentucky Derby (G1) winner and Preakness Stakes (G1) runner-up Mystik Dan arrived at Saratoga Race Course May 20 to start in the Belmont Stakes (G1).
Trainer Kenny McPeek said Saturday that Mystik Dan came out of the Preakness in good shape. Just as he did after the Kentucky Derby before the Preakness, McPeek said he will take some time before deciding whether to move Mystik Dan to the $2 million Belmont. The final leg of the Triple Crown will be run at a distance of 1 1/4 miles due to the configuration of the Saratoga track.
Earlier this year, New York Governor Kathy Hochul’s executive budget included a proposal for NYRA to build new thoroughbred racing facilities at Belmont Park, and the promulgated budget has been approved. This project will upgrade the 117-year-old route, providing the modern hospitality services fans expect while creating $1 billion in construction-related impact, 3,700 construction jobs, 155 million USD in annual economic activity and 740 new full-time jobs.
