Baffert Back From Ban, Wins Preakness With National Treasure After Another Horse Euthanized

Bob Baffert (C), trainer of National Treasure, and jockey John Velazquez (L) help hoist the Woodland Vase after winning the148th running of the Preakness Stakes horse race at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore on May 20, 2023. Julia Nikhinson/AP Photo

BALTIMORE—Bob Baffert choked back tears and his voice cracked while he tried to juggle the conflicting feelings of seeing one of his horses win the Preakness Stakes hours after another was euthanized on the same track.

“This business is twists and turns, ups and downs,” the Hall of Fame trainer said. “To win this—losing that horse today really hurt ... It’s been a very emotional day.”