Understandably, both trainers Ken McPeek and D. Wayne Lukas are not overly concerned about the possibility of rain on Belmont Stakes day. The Accuweather forecast predicts a high chance of precipitation, with thundershowers expected on Friday and showers and thunderstorms on Saturday. The chance of rain on the day of the race is a staggering 94%.
D. Wayne Lukas, a legendary 88-year-old horse-racing trainer, showcased his confidence by proudly displaying Thursday’s cover of The Post’s eight-page Belmont Stakes wrap. Lukas, the trainer of Preakness winner Seize the Grey, stated that although he doesn’t dwell on hypothetical situations, a shower on the racetrack would be welcomed. He observed the dry conditions in the area and expressed his belief that some rain would be beneficial.
Seize the Grey, who broke his maiden at Saratoga last July on a sloppy track, defeating Belmont Stakes contender Dornoch by 1³/â‚„ lengths, has proven his ability to perform well in such conditions. On the other hand, Ken McPeek, trainer of Kentucky Derby winner Mystik Dan, acknowledged that his horse is renowned for excelling in muddy tracks. Mystik Dan won the Arkansas Derby by a remarkable 8 lengths on a muddy track in February and secured second place in the Preakness amidst Pimlico’s muddy conditions three weeks ago. McPeek emphasized that Mystik Dan is a horse that remains largely unaffected by external factors, making him a formidable competitor regardless of the track conditions.
Interestingly, some of the other Belmont Stakes contenders also have experience and success on off-tracks. Todd Pletcher’s Antiquarian claimed victory at Fair Grounds in February on a muddy track, showcasing his ability to handle such conditions. Sierra Leone, another contender, emerged victorious in the Remsen on a muddy track at Aqueduct last December. These horses’ past performances in similar conditions highlight their potential to thrive amidst the potential rain on Belmont Stakes day.
In conclusion, while the forecast suggests a high chance of rain on Belmont Stakes day, trainers like D. Wayne Lukas and Ken McPeek remain confident in their horses’ abilities to perform well, regardless of the track conditions. The experience and success of other contenders in off-tracks further add to the anticipation and excitement of the upcoming race.
