California Chrome's jockey Victor Espinoza knows what winning the Kentucky Derby-Preakness Stakes double is all about. He’s been there and done it.

After winning the 2002 Kentucky Derby aboard War Emblem, the pair added the Preakness two weeks later before failing to become the first horse since Affirmed to sweep the Triple Crown when he finished eighth in the Belmont Stakes.

Comparing his previous Preakness Stakes winner to this year’s Derby winner California Chrome, Espinoza said his current star’s versatility sets him apart.

"War Emblem only liked to run in front," Espinoza said. "California Chrome can be in front or behind, inside or outside. It's different.

“California Chrome gives me a lot of confidence.

“He came back good after the Derby. He's ready to go and I'm ready, too."

Espinoza is clear there is a target on his back but he is doing his best to approach the second leg of the Triple Crown like any other race.

"Anytime I ride the favourite there is pressure. Everyone is trying to beat you,” he said.

“California Chrome can handle it. I can handle it, too."

"I'm ready for it. Coming back here with a horse like California Chrome is something special for me."

Espinoza's chief concern in the Preakness is that his mount is comfortable throughout the race.

"Tactics may be a little different. It feels like there is a lot of speed in there," Espinoza said.

"If they are going pretty fast up front, you don't want to get in a speed duel with other horses.

“I just want him to go at his own pace. Wherever he's at, as long as he is comfortable and happy, he can run either way.

“When the gate opens everything can change. I have to be ready for anything when the gate opens.

"I never have asked him for all he has. I don't know exactly if he has a lot more or if he is running as hard as he can."

California Chrome's competition in the Preakness includes new shooters such as Social Inclusion, Bayern and Dynamic Impact.

“They're all ready to go.” Espinoza said. “Everybody believes they have a chance. I am ready for all of them."

Espinoza said California Chrome’s trainer never ties him down with instructions.

"In these kinds of races, normally, most trainers tell you exactly how to ride their horse. Art and I have a different relationship and he just lets me do my own thing, the right thing to do for California Chrome during a race,” said the jockey.