Trainer Kenny McPeek has announced that Mystik Dan, the 2024 Kentucky Derby winner, will compete in the $200,000 Lake Ouachita Stakes at Oaklawn on May 3. This decision follows Mystik Dan's recent training session where he covered five furlongs in 1:00.4 at Oaklawn. The race marks the horse's return after a ninth-place finish in the Pegasus World Cup Invitational (G1) in January. Owned by 4 G Racing and others, Mystik Dan aims to become the first Derby champion since Mandaloun to secure another victory post-Derby.

In preparation for the upcoming stakes event, Mystik Dan underwent an intense workout under the watchful eyes of his trainers. His performance during this session was pivotal in cementing the decision to enter him into the Lake Ouachita Stakes. Since his surprising victory in the Kentucky Derby last year, Mystik Dan has participated in four additional races without achieving a win. However, he did manage a second-place finish in the Preakness before taking some time off during the summer and fall seasons.

The Lake Ouachita Stakes holds special significance as it occurs exactly one year after Mystik Dan's historic Derby triumph. With a career record showcasing three wins, two seconds, and one third place out of eleven starts, the colt has amassed earnings exceeding $4 million. Fans and experts alike are eager to see if Mystik Dan can recapture the form that led him to victory in one of horse racing's most prestigious events.

Mystik Dan’s participation in the Lake Ouachita Stakes is not only a test of his current capabilities but also a step towards reclaiming his status among top-tier racehorses. The challenge lies ahead as he attempts to follow in the footsteps of Mandaloun, who successfully won multiple races following his Derby win. Regardless of the outcome, Mystik Dan continues to leave an indelible mark on the world of thoroughbred racing with each race he enters.