Gary Stute is one of the most popular trainers in the Preakness stakes barn this week - and not just because he brings third-place Kentucky Derby finisher Papa Clem to the dance.

     Stute, is attempting to relive his family’s most famous moment - his father Mel winning the cherished race with Snow Chief in 1986. But that might not be the biggest attraction, either.

     The younger Stute, with his ever-present cigar and cold beverage at the ready is getting a reputation for having the best-stocked trainer’s office on the grounds. And for the guy having the most fun.

     “Every morning I go over and get some cold beer and some fried chicken and stock up,” the fun-loving Stute said this morning. “That’s why all grooms hang out around my place.”

     “To win this race 23 years after my father won it sure would be something special,” Stute said at this morning’s Alibi Breakfast.. “I don’t know how many years I’ve got left with him and I’d like to do something (special) while he’s alive rather than later.”

     That Preakness win 23 years ago was a moment Stute will never forget, given the emotions his father showed and the fact that Snow Chief was the beaten favourite in the Derby. Imagine then, how it would feel if Papa Clem is the star of Preakness 134 early Saturday evening.
“(Mel Stute) will be here and it’d mean a lot to win it with him here. Pimlico is definitely a special place for the Stute family.”