Preakness Winner Rachel Alexandra Returns to the Track

LOUISVILLE, Ky. – Rachel Alexandra returned to the track for the first time since becoming the first filly in 85 years to win the Preakness.

She galloped a mile Wednesday over a fast Churchill Downs track. Kentucky Derby winner Mine That Bird galloped 1 1/2 miles for the first time since finishing second to Rachel Alexandra in last Saturday's Preakness at Pimlico.

Rachel Alexandra will gallop again Thursday and is scheduled to complete a timed workout Monday. Mine That Bird also will gallop Thursday, but he won't work out before early next week.

"The horse is just doing super, he's on his game," trainer Chip Woolley said. "We're really surprised that he's as fresh as he is after two good hard races."

Woolley said he and Mine That Bird's co-owners Mark Allen and Leonard Blach have decided to wait until early next week before choosing a rider for the Belmont Stakes on June 6.

Calvin Borel was aboard Mine That Bird for his 6 3/4-length victory in the Derby, but he chose to ride Rachel Alexandra in the Preakness.

Mike Smith replaced Borel on Mine That Bird, but he has a previous riding commitment in Southern California on June 6, the same day as the Belmont in New York.