The world of horse racing is full of dramatic tales, and the Preakness Alibi Breakfast is a tradition where trainers share their own unique stories of misfortune and missed opportunities. This year, the focus was on Great White, a horse with an intriguing tale that sets it apart from the usual excuses and bad luck narratives.
Great White's story is one of a near-miss, a heart-stopping moment that could have ended his racing career before it truly began. Trainer John Ennis recounted the incident, a scary rearing and flipping episode just before the Kentucky Derby (G1), which resulted in Great White being scratched from the race. It's a tale that has resonated with racing fans and sports enthusiasts across the country, as it symbolizes the fragility of dreams and the unexpected twists that can alter the course of a horse's, and by extension, a trainer's journey.
"The incident was a close call, but I'm glad to report that Great White came out of it unscathed. He's healthy and full of energy, as if the Churchill Downs episode never happened. It's a testament to his resilience and a reminder of the unpredictable nature of this sport," Ennis shared.
As the Preakness moves to Laurel Park for a temporary stop, the energy and excitement surrounding the event are palpable. With a limited crowd of 5,000, the atmosphere is intimate yet vibrant, a contrast to the usual wild scenes associated with the classic race. The refurbished Laurel clubhouse provides a comfortable setting for trainers and attendees to gather, share stories, and reflect on the unique challenges and triumphs of the sport.
Among the trainers in attendance, Jeremiah Englehart brought a touch of humor and self-deprecating wit to the podium. Englehart, known for his good looks, playfully acknowledged the inspiration behind his horse's name, Pretty Boy Miah, a nod to his own handsome features and a light-hearted tribute to the late trainer D. Wayne Lukas.
"Being the best-looking guy in the room has its challenges, but I'm honored to have a horse named after my good looks," Englehart joked, adding a touch of levity to the morning's proceedings.
Dallas Stewart, another trainer with a connection to the late Lukas, expressed his excitement and gratitude for the opportunity to compete in a classic race. Stewart, who has come close to victory in the Preakness twice, shared his hopes for a win on Saturday, highlighting the dream-like quality of the marquee event.
"The Preakness is a race we all dream about. It's a chance to showcase our horses and our hard work. I'm honored to be here, and I'm hoping for a chance to finally bring home the win," Stewart said.
The morning's events also included awards and recognition for individuals who have made a positive impact on the racing industry. Cricket Goodall, executive director of the Maryland Horse Breeders Association, and Dr. Dionne Benson, chief veterinary officer of 1/ST Racing, received a Special Award of Merit for their contributions. Childs Walker of the Baltimore Banner and Charles Toler of Eclipse Sportswire were honored with the Old Hilltop Award for their excellence in sports media coverage of Thoroughbred racing. Bob Ehalt, a three-time recipient, was recognized for the best Preakness story of 2025.
As the sun rose on the Preakness Alibi Breakfast, it was a reminder of the human element in horse racing. The stories shared, the dreams pursued, and the resilience displayed by both horses and trainers are a testament to the sport's enduring appeal. It's a world where hopes are high, dreams are fragile, and the unexpected can shape the course of history.
"The beauty of horse racing is its unpredictability. It's a sport that keeps us on our toes, and I, for one, am excited to see what the day brings," Ennis concluded.
