California Chrome Headed For New York Seeking Triple Crown Glory

The ‘nasal strip’ controversy has been put to rest (he’ll be allowed to wear it) and California Chrome is headed to New York and a date with destiny, as he tries to become just the fourth thoroughbred, and first in 36 years, to win the Triple Crown. It was earlier reported that ‘Chrome may not run the third leg of the series due to the fact he races with a nasal strip to help his breathing, and it’s a piece of equipment not included in what the New York Racing Association list as part of the regular racing equipment. However, the NYRA announced earlier today it would be allowed.

'Chrome gets a perfect trip in the Preakness

On Saturday, California Chrome (1-2) claimed the second leg of the Triple Crown with a 1 1/2 length win in the Preakness Stakes. Breaking from post position #3, he got his usual strong start to avoid any trouble coming out of the gate, and then allowed jockey Victor Espinoza to take him just off the rail and settled into his customary stalking position, just behind the pace duel between longshots Pablo Del Monte and Ria Antonia. As the field swept into the final turn, 5-1 second choice Social Inclusion loomed to his outside, and when that one accelerated for the lead, Espinoza was forced to go with him.

Well-rested foes will be waiting at Belmont Park

In the end, it made no difference that the California-bred son of Lucky Pulpit was forced to move earlier than Espinoza had planned. At the top of the stretch he made he kicked into another gear, and quickly turned back Social Inclusion. Next up loomed a hard-charging Ride On Curlin, and for a moment it looked like a two-horse race to the stretch, but ‘Chrome raced on, and never let that one make a serious threat. Now it’s on to the Belmont, where the second, third, fourth and fifth place finishers of the Kentucky Derby will all be waiting for a chance at revenge.