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Why is Sovereignty skipping the Preakness Stakes?
Sovereignty will not compete in the Preakness Stakes due to a focus on the horse's long-term health, as emphasized by trainer Bill Mott. This decision follows a trend where Derby winners have increasingly opted out of the second leg of the Triple Crown, marking the fifth time in seven years that the Preakness will not feature a potential Triple Crown winner.
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What does this mean for the Triple Crown?
Sovereignty's absence from the Preakness Stakes means that the quest for a Triple Crown champion will continue to elude horse racing for another year. This marks the seventh consecutive year without a Triple Crown winner, highlighting a significant shift in the sport's dynamics and raising questions about the future of such prestigious titles.
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How does trainer Bill Mott prioritize horse health?
Trainer Bill Mott has made it clear that the health and well-being of Sovereignty is his top priority. He stated, 'We want to do what’s best for the horse,' indicating that decisions are made with the horse's long-term interests in mind, rather than immediate competition.
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What are the implications for horse racing fans?
For horse racing fans, Sovereignty's decision to skip the Preakness Stakes may be disappointing, as it means another year without a chance for a Triple Crown champion. Fans may also be concerned about the trend of Derby winners opting out of subsequent races, which could affect the excitement and prestige associated with the Triple Crown.
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What injuries or issues influenced this decision?
While it has been reported that Sovereignty suffered a scrape, it remains unclear if this injury directly influenced the decision to skip the Preakness. However, the emphasis on health and well-being suggests that any potential issues were taken seriously by trainer Bill Mott.
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How does this trend affect future Derby winners?
The trend of Derby winners skipping the Preakness Stakes raises questions about the future of the Triple Crown. As more trainers prioritize the health of their horses over the pursuit of titles, it may lead to a re-evaluation of how these prestigious races are approached, potentially changing the landscape of horse racing.