The illustrious 2024 Kentucky Derby victor, Mystik Dan, is expected to arrive at Oaklawn in the early days of this upcoming week. This move aims to further his training for an anticipated comeback race, as revealed by co-owner Lance Gasaway on Saturday morning. Since placing ninth in the Grade 1 Pegasus World Cup Invitational back in January, Mystik Dan has been given a month-long rest. His return to active preparation is scheduled for this Saturday at Oaklawn. Under the guidance of trainer Kenny McPeek, Mystik Dan continues to gallop daily at Fair Grounds. The possibility of him racing before Oaklawn's meet concludes on May 3 remains uncertain.

Mystik Dan’s journey at Oaklawn began last season with three starts. Notably, he triumphed in the Southwest Stakes (G3), marking a significant victory for his Arkansas-based ownership group. Despite finishing fifth in the Smarty Jones Stakes and third in the Arkansas Derby (G1), Mystik Dan demonstrated considerable potential. As Gasaway expressed, while there is enthusiasm about running Mystik Dan at Oaklawn again, the timing of his readiness remains speculative.

Beyond Lance Gasaway, the horse also represents 4 G Racing, owned by Brent and Sharilyn Gasaway, and Valley View Farm, managed by Banks and Scott Hamby. This collaborative ownership underscores the collective commitment to Mystik Dan's continued success. With his first post-break breeze set for this Saturday, all eyes are on how swiftly Mystik Dan can regain peak form.

The upcoming weeks will be pivotal for Mystik Dan's preparation schedule. Whether or not he participates in races prior to Oaklawn's season finale depends heavily on his performance during these crucial training sessions. If successful, Mystik Dan could potentially replicate or even surpass the achievements that have already cemented his place in racing history.

As the racing world eagerly anticipates Mystik Dan's next moves, one thing is certain: his presence brings both excitement and expectation. With dedicated trainers and owners supporting him, the stage is set for another remarkable chapter in his career. While uncertainties linger regarding exact race dates, the focus remains firmly on ensuring Mystik Dan is in optimal condition for his comeback performances.