Exaggerator Returns to Track, Nyquist Out of Belmont Stakes

BALTIMORE – Preakness Stakes (G1) winner Exaggerator was playful and happy Tuesday morning as he returned to the track at Pimlico Race Course.

“We’re really pleased with him,” said assistant trainer Julie Clark. “I was just talking to the groom and even after two races back-to-back it still doesn’t look like he’s lost any weight…He’s doing great. It would be nice to have a little bit of a break from him sometimes because he’s always on his toes and squealing around, but it’s good to see.”

Clark said the pressure of competing in the Triple Crown has been made easier because of Exaggerator.

“It’s been pretty easy with this horse,” she said. “Often you have a little something, they’re not eating or they seem down or there’s something to worry about. With him there hasn’t been so it takes a lot of pressure off and you can really just enjoy it for a change. So he’s made it real easy on everyone.”

Clark said Exaggerator will go to the track Wednesday, walk Thursday, return to the track Friday and Saturday and then ship to New York Sunday to prepare for the June 11 Belmont Stakes (G1).

Kentucky Derby (G1) winner Nyquist, third in the Preakness, is now out of consideration for the June 11 Belmont Stakes (gr. I), said his trainer, Doug O’Neill, this morning.

Pimlico Race Course