Racing Hall of Fame inductee Reigh Count.
However, an impressive seven-length win in the April 29, 1972 Survivor Stakes at 1+1⁄8 miles (1.8 km) on the Pimlico track convinced him to enter the colt in the May 20 Preakness Stakes.
On the day preceding the Preakness, Pimlico Race Course was hit by heavy rains.
Riva Ridge, who had not previously run on a sloppy track, remained the heavy favorite.
Relishing the muddy conditions, the colt held off a late rally by No Le Hace to earn the most important victory of his career.