Filly Swiss Skydiver to run against males in Preakness this weekend

BALTIMORE — Swiss Skydiver will become the second filly since Rachel Alexandra won in 2009 to run against males in the Preakness on Saturday.

Trainer Kenny McPeek confirmed the decision on Sunday. Jockey Robby Albarado, who won the 2007 Preakness aboard Curlin, will replace Tyler Gaffalione on Swiss Skydiver.

In her only other start against males, Swiss Skydiver finished second to potential Preakness rival Art Collector in the Blue Grass Stakes on July 11. She won the Grade 1 Alabama at Saratoga on Aug. 15 and finished second in the Kentucky Oaks on Sept. 4.

Five fillies have won the Preakness, including Rachel Alexandra, who went on to become Horse of the Year in 2009. In all, 55 females have run in the 1 3/16-mile race. Ria Antonia was the most recent, finishing last in 2014.

“I know she will make the distance without any problem,” McPeek said. “It was a tough call between racing against straight 3-year-olds or older fillies and mares or turf, which was briefly thought about. I think she will handle it fine.”

The draw for the 145th Preakness is Monday.

The field for the final leg of the reconfigured Triple Crown series is expected to include Kentucky Derby winner Authentic. Belmont winner Tiz the Law is skipping the Preakness.