Saratoga Springs has become the center of attention for horse racing enthusiasts as the highly anticipated running of the Grade I Travers Stakes on August 26th approaches. This race is expected to be a thrilling showdown among the three colts who emerged victorious in a Triple Crown race this year.
In the recent $1 million Haskell Stakes at Monmouth Park, Mage, the Kentucky Derby winner, showcased his skills by making an impressive comeback from sixth place in a field of eight. Although he finished second to Geaux Rocket Ride by 1-3/4 lengths, Mage’s performance solidified his spot in the Travers. Co-owner Ramiro Restrepo expressed his excitement, emphasizing that participating in the Travers has always been a lifelong dream for him, given his rich horseman heritage.
Arcangelo, the talented Belmont winner trained by Jena Antonucci, is also gearing up for the Travers. This colt has been diligently training at Saratoga’s backstretch, focusing on improving his speed. He recently completed a five-furlong workout in an impressive time of 58.49 seconds on July 5, followed by a six-furlong breeze in 1 minute, 14.03 seconds on July 17. Antonucci believes in taking their time with Arcangelo’s preparation for the race, ensuring he is in peak condition.
National Treasure, the Preakness winner under the guidance of Hall of Fame trainer Bob Baffert, is currently training in Del Mar, California. This colt recently recorded a solid five-furlong move in 59.2 seconds during his latest training session.
In addition to the horses, attention is also being given to the jockeys. Both Antonucci and Delgado will be seeking new jockeys for their respective colts. Javier Castellano, a Hall of Fame rider, rode both Mage to victory in the Derby and Arcangelo in the Belmont. Meanwhile, Hall of Fame rider John Velazquez guided National Treasure to victory in the Preakness.
Looking ahead to the $1 million Whitney on August 5, Cody’s Wish, a highly successful nine-time winner from 13 starts, is expected to showcase his abilities. This impressive horse, sired by the two-time horse of the year Curlin, recently completed a clocked time of 1 minute, 02.81 seconds over the Oklahoma Training Track. This will be Cody’s Wish’s second start at a distance longer than one mile.
On the same day, Pretty Mischievous, a six-time winner with an impressive racing bankroll exceeding $1.4 million, will take on the challenge of the Grade I Test Stakes. This horse, trained by Brendan Walsh, has previously won the Kentucky Oaks and the Grade I Acorn. Pretty Mischievous aims to secure her third Grade I victory in the Test Stakes, which will be a one-turn affair at seven furlongs.
Trainer Christophe Clement is currently exploring options for the next race for Roses for Debra, the winner of the Grade III Caress Stakes. The possibilities include the Spa’s Smart N Fancy, the Ladies Sprint at Kentucky Downs, or the Presque Isle Downs Masters. All three races are turf sprints ranging from 5-1/2 to 6-1/2 furlongs.
With the anticipation building and stakes getting higher, the horse racing world eagerly awaits the upcoming races at Saratoga Springs. The Travers Stakes, Whitney, and Test Stakes promise to be thrilling events, showcasing the talent and determination of these remarkable horses and their connections.
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