With Kentucky Derby winner Smarty Jones likely to go off a big favorite in the Preakness, The Post asked some of the nation’s top horsemen their opinions as to who can topple the “Philly Flash” in the second jewel of the Triple Crown tomorrow at Pimlico.
Edgar Prado, jockey: “I’ve heard a lot of good things about Rock Hard Ten and Gary Stevens is coming from France to ride him.”
Rick Violette, trainer of seventh-place Derby finisher Read the Footnotes: “Imperialism had a pretty eventful trip in the Derby. There looks to be a little more early speed in here and it could set up for him to pick up the pieces. I don’t think we’ve seen the best of Rock Hard Ten either. He’s the unknown.”
Neil Howard, trainer of last year’s Horse of the Year Mineshaft: “Lion Heart ran a huge race in the Derby. He could get loose on them.”
Jose Santos, jockey of 2003 Preakness winner Funny Cide: “Imperialism would have run much better with a cleaner trip in the Derby. If he can stay out of trouble, he’ll be tough.”
Tom Durkin, NYRA track announcer and voice of the Triple Crown and Breeders’ Cup for NBC: “Lion Heart could improve off the Derby. He’s fresh and they’re going a little shorter. He’s consistent. Rock Hard Ten can be any kind and will probably benefit from missing the Derby.”
John Velazquez, jockey: “Rock Hard Ten looks like he can be the real deal.”
Kiaran McLaughlin, trainer: “Rock Hard Ten has been the most impressive 3-year-old in my opinion this season, he just lacks experience and seasoning. Eddington has been one of my favorites since his debut in the fog at Aqueduct when he was second. I know him pretty well since my brother-in-law [Mark Hennig] trains him. He’s got an awful lot of ability.”