In preparation for the prestigious 150th Preakness Stakes, renowned trainer Steve Asmussen has been diligently training his promising horse Clever Again. While other notable horses like Tiztastic and Publisher were training at Churchill Downs for the Kentucky Derby, Clever Again completed a significant workout at Oaklawn Park. This young horse, with a lineage tracing back to the legendary American Pharoah, has shown remarkable potential in recent races, including a decisive victory in the Hot Springs Stakes. With high expectations from both the trainer and ownership group, Clever Again is poised to make a strong showing in the upcoming race.

Clever Again: The Rising Star of Racing

In the crisp, early hours of a spring morning, under the watchful eye of trainer Steve Asmussen, Clever Again embarked on an essential five-eighths of a mile workout, clocking in at 1:00.4 seconds. This session took place at Oaklawn Park, where Clever Again had previously demonstrated his prowess by securing a dominant win in the Hot Springs Stakes. Known for his exceptional speed and endurance, Clever Again has quickly become one of Asmussen’s most promising prospects alongside stablemates such as Publisher and Tiztastic.

Since his debut last year at Keeneland, Clever Again has exhibited steady improvement. His breakthrough came in February when he triumphed in an Oaklawn maiden race, followed by another commanding performance in the Hot Springs Stakes. According to Asmussen, Clever Again’s capabilities extend far beyond what has already been showcased, suggesting that longer distances will only enhance his performance. Backed by a distinguished ownership group, including Winchell Thoroughbreds and Coolmore partners, Clever Again is set to compete in the Preakness Stakes on May 17 in Baltimore.

From a journalistic perspective, Clever Again’s journey highlights the meticulous planning and dedication required in competitive horse racing. Asmussen’s strategic approach underscores the importance of understanding each horse's unique attributes and tailoring their training accordingly. For readers, this story serves as a reminder of the intricate balance between natural talent and expert guidance that defines success in the sport. It also emphasizes the anticipation surrounding Clever Again’s potential impact on the Preakness stage, adding excitement to the upcoming event.