Medina Spirit 'Feeling Great' in Training Since Derby
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Photo: Coady Photography
Bob Baffert with Medina Spirit the day after the colt's Kentucky Derby victory at Churchill Downs
After the dust settled from another historic Kentucky Derby Presented by Woodford Reserve (G1) at Churchill Downs, trainer Bob Baffert's Barn 33 staff were back in their normal routine as Medina Spirit returned to the track following his victory in the May 1 Derby.
Zedan Racing Stables' Medina Spirit, who began his early preparation for the May 15 Preakness Stakes (G1), trained May 5-6 with Humberto Gomez in the saddle alongside assistant trainer Jimmy Barnes.
"He's feeling great," Barnes said. "He's a happy horse and we're a happy barn. It's been a great few days for everyone and our horses."
Medina Spirit is scheduled to join his stablemate Concert Tour on a van to Pimlico Race Course the afternoon of May 10. Baffert plans to return to Louisville this weekend before a workout from Concert Tour at Churchill May 9.
Gary and Mary West's Concert Tour, winner of the Feb. 6 San Vicente Stakes (G2) and March 13 Rebel Stakes (G2), bypassed the Derby and breezed five furlongs in 1:00 3/5 at Churchill May 2. The son of Street Sense finished third in the April 10 Arkansas Derby (G1) last out.
Unlike Concert Tour, Medina Spirit is not slated to breeze before the Preakness. Baffert plans “a spirited gallop” this weekend.
"He ran hard. He ran fast. With two weeks (rest) you don’t need to do a whole lot,” Baffert said.