Major Upset in the Old Forester Mint Julep Stakes at Churchill Downs

In a nail-biting twist, the Old Forester Mint Julep Stakes (G3) at Churchill Downs witnessed an underdog, Mystik Dan, emerging as the unexpected champion today (June 2 2024). The race, featuring fierce competition among fillies and mares, concluded with the long-shot, Mystik Dan defying the odds and securing the victory.

Mystik Dan, trained by D. Wayne Lukas and ridden by jockey Irad Ortiz Jr., showcased a powerful finishing kick, surprising both spectators and competitors.

This victory marks a significant milestone for the connections of Mystik Dan, as she managed to outperform several well-fancied contenders. This win adds to the impressive earnings of Ortiz Jr., who continues to lead the jockey earnings table for 2024​  

About Mystik Dan

Mystik Dan has recently captured attention in the horse racing world with several notable achievements. This three-year-old colt, trained by Kenny McPeek, made headlines by winning the 150th Kentucky Derby on May 4, 2024, in a dramatic photo finish. Ridden by jockey Brian Hernandez Jr., Mystik Dan triumphed by a nose over Sierra Leone and Forever Young, marking one of the closest finishes in the race’s history​.

Mystik Dan is sired by Goldencents out of the mare Ma’am, and he was bred in Kentucky by Lance Gasaway, Daniel Hamby, and the 4G Racing team. His Derby victory was a significant milestone for McPeek, who completed a career Triple Crown, having previously won the Preakness with Swiss Skydiver in 2020 and the Belmont Stakes with Sarava in 2002​.

Following his Kentucky Derby win, Mystik Dan was entered into the Preakness Stakes, the second leg of the Triple Crown. Despite initial uncertainty, it was confirmed that he would run, drawing the No. 5 post position. With the favourite Muth being scratched, Mystik Dan became the new favourite with odds of 5-2.

Owned by a consortium including Lance and Brent Gasaway, Daniel and Scott Hamby, and 4G Racing, Mystik Dan’s success is seen as a tribute to Lance’s late father, who shared a passion for horse racing. This ownership group is excited about Mystik Dan’s potential as he continues to compete in high-stakes races​.