Mystik Dan scored a thrilling upset at the Kentucky Derby, winning by a nose and bringing a career Triple Crown to trainer Kenny McPeek. The horse, lightly regarded, was listed at 20-1 on the morning line but was bet down to 18-1 by the start of the race. Jockey Brian Hernandez Jr. expressed his surprise and excitement at the win, marking the first Derby triumph for both him and McPeek. Mystik Dan’s victory came after a previous third-place finish at the Arkansas Derby and a win at the Grade III Southwest Stakes. The win capped a remarkable 24 hours for McPeek and Hernandez, who also won the Kentucky Oaks the day before.
Mystik Dan’s win was achieved through a thrilling three-horse photo-finish victory, where he narrowly edged out second favorite Sierra Leone and Forever Young at the finish line. The victory was the result of a brilliant ride by jockey Brian Hernandez Jr. who was praised by trainer Kenny McPeek. The horse may have benefited from the two other contenders bumping several times down the stretch as they attempted to overtake the leader. Despite the close finish, Mystik Dan’s win was a testament to his talent and the skill of his rider and trainer.
The Triple Crown quest for Mystik Dan will continue on May 18 with the 149th running of the Preakness Stakes in Baltimore. Leading up to the Derby, celebrities and horse racing enthusiasts filled Churchill Downs to witness the excitement of the prestigious event. Notable figures such as Martha Stewart, Sheryl Lee Ralph, and Kid Rock were in attendance, adding to the excitement of the day. The event featured various big-money races in addition to the main Derby race, showcasing the talent of other horses and trainers in the industry.
In addition to Mystik Dan’s win, other notable victories took place during the Derby day races. Long shot Trikari rallied to a thrilling upset victory in the American Turf Stakes, while Gun Pilot emerged victorious in the Churchill Downs Stakes. Program Trading edged out Naval Power to win the Turf Classic Stakes, and Seize The Grey claimed victory in the Pat Day Mile Stakes. Chili Flag and Vahva were also successful in winning their respective races, highlighting the competitive nature of the event and the skill of both horses and jockeys.
The thrilling races and upsets at the Kentucky Derby added to the excitement of the day, with fans and attendees witnessing the triumphs of various horses and trainers. Mystik Dan’s surprise victory was a testament to the talent and skill of both the horse and his connections, setting the stage for a potential Triple Crown journey. As the racing world looks ahead to the Preakness Stakes and beyond, the legacy of the 2024 Kentucky Derby will be remembered for the thrilling finishes and unexpected outcomes that captivated audiences and fans of horse racing.
