Entering the Kentucky Derby MEDINA SPIRIT had two Wins and three 2nd place finishes. His speed as well as his connections made him out to be a solid competitor- on paper.

However back-to-back races in which he was well-beaten made him difficult to back as a Win contender.

MEDINA SPIRIT seemed like a horse that could run a solid race – because he always shows up –  but many, DRB included, thought he might, at best, top out at rounding out the Trifecta or Superfecta.

Now with three Wins and three 2nds in six career starts, including the biggest prize in U.S. racing, the days of MEDINA SPIRIT being overlooked are (like the Derby field), in the rearview mirror.

The Preakness is up next on May 15th, and you have to respect the chances of Medina Spirit in the middle jewel of the Triple Crown.

His trainer- Bob Baffert has Won the race five times in six tries when he sent the Kentucky Derby Winner to Baltimore.

He also has tactical speed and has proved tough as nails when challenged in the stretch.

Plus, it appears he won’t be seeing many of the other elite 3-year-olds from the Derby, so MEDINA SPIRIT will likely be the heavy favorite.

But… on the other hand, Baffert said himself that he wasn’t especially confident in MEDINA SPIRIT entering the Kentucky Derby, which took the pressure off both horse and trainer in the weeks leading into the race.

Now, MEDINA SPIRIT will be challenged to duplicate a career-best performance, on two weeks rest, in a race where he’ll be the one everyone fears, and are aiming to take down.

There will be no coasting, posting soft fractions, or being unchallenged on the lead in the Preakness for the Kentucky Derby Winner.

Speed rules in this contest, and DRB expects he will really be pressured May 15th at Pimlico.

The Post Positions for this years Preakness Stakes will be drawn on Monday.