It’s rare to see a victorious trainer leave the winner’s circle only to rush back down the track after a major race, but Safi Joseph Jr. did just that following Skippy Longstocking’s triumph in the Grade 1 Pegasus World Cup at Gulfstream Park on Saturday.
Amidst flashing cameras, cheering fans, and celebrating owners, Joseph took a moment to congratulate another competitor, White Avario, who had fought hard to secure second place in the event. He gently placed his arm around the gray horse’s neck, expressing his pride and affection.
“I’ve never felt so much pressure in my life. Winning wasn’t on my mind,” Joseph said emotionally. “I knew Skippy was doing well, but my focus was on Avario. He went above and beyond, and I had to make sure everything was perfect. What a remarkable horse he is.”
“I gain nothing from Skippy’s win. Today felt like his birthday, and he truly showed all his spirit,” he added.
Both 7-year-olds, Skippy Longstocking (21-1 odds) and White Avario (3-1 odds) had taken very different paths leading up to the $3 million main event on January 24 in Hallandale Beach, Florida.
After a disappointing performance in the Grade 2 Charles Town Classic on August 22, Skippy Longstocking, participating in his fourth Pegasus World Cup, was diagnosed with “thumps,” an electrolyte imbalance. However, he bounced back with a gritty win in the Grade 3 Harlan’s Holiday Stakes on December 20.
“Harlan’s Holiday was a pivotal race. It was either a revival or retirement for him,” Joseph explained. “He impressed us all by improving since then. I had complete faith in him. It’s incredible to see a 7-year-old horse performing better than ever.”
On the other hand, White Avario, the defending Pegasus World Cup champion, faced setbacks after being scratched at the gate by a regulatory vet before the Breeders’ Cup Dirt Mile at Del Mar in November. He also missed his planned start at Harlan’s Holiday seven weeks later.
“I was simply hoping for Avario to return healthy,” Joseph’s voice trembled with emotion. “Given his injury, there was more scrutiny on him than ever. I’m so proud—he defied expectations and competed like a champion. I’m proud of both these horses.”
Returning to the winner’s circle, Joseph celebrated with Skippy Longstocking’s delighted owner, Daniel Alonso.
“It means everything to us,” Alonso shared. “He’s an exceptional horse who earned this victory. We knew it would be tough from behind today, but he found a new level of speed we’ve never seen before. Beating a great like White Avario makes this win even sweeter.”
Before heading to the post-race press conference, Joseph called back to the barn to check on White Avario and then Skippy, confirming both were in good shape.
“Obviously, I’m thrilled for Skippy—he’s a horse I love. But I needed to be sure Avario was okay, too. To me, that’s a win as well,” Joseph said.
As predicted, the unbeaten Disco Time set the early pace of the 2026 Pegasus World Cup. Winning jockey Tyler Gaffalione tactically held Skippy Longstocking back, dropping to eighth position early and carefully navigating the turn.
Meanwhile, Irad Ortiz Jr. pushed White Avario wide coming into the final bend, overtaking all but one horse and taking the lead entering the stretch. At that moment, Gaffalione shifted Skippy’s path to chase down White Avario, signaling the horse to make his move.
Skippy Longstocking responded with a strong surge, powering through to win by 1 1/4 lengths over White Avario, finishing the 1 1/8 mile race on the fast main track in 1:48.49. Skippy paid out $45.20 for the win.
“Saffie told me to ride with confidence, be patient, and trust Skippy’s ability, and that support gave me strength all race long,” Gaffalione said. “The race unfolded perfectly. I found a good inside spot and he steadily gained ground. At the turn, I had to split another horse, but once I did, Skippy took a deep breath and surged forward. I’m thrilled for the team and proud of the horse—he absolutely deserved this Grade 1 victory.”
This marked Skippy Longstocking’s first Grade 1 win, boosting his career tally to 13 wins in 36 starts and earnings exceeding $5.4 million. He is a progeny of Exaggerator, with yearlings sold for $37,000 at the 2021 OBS April Sale.
The full finishing order for the Pegasus World Cup was: Skippy Longstocking, White Avario, Full Serrano (ARG), Captain Cook, British Isles, Vanishing, Lightning Tones, Disco Time, Mika, Poster, Brotha Kenny, and Tappan Street.
Irad Ortiz Jr., the jockey for White Avario, expressed his deep admiration for the horse. “He has a huge heart. I trust both him and Saffy. After such a long layoff, coming back to race eight furlongs against tough competition isn’t easy. What he did today was incredible. I’m very proud of him. He’s been a true fighter over the years, and I hate to see him lose.”
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Fan Take: This thrilling Pegasus World Cup highlighted the resilience and heart of two outstanding horses, reminding fans why horse racing captures our imagination. With veterans like Skippy Longstocking and White Avario continuing to compete at the highest level, the sport’s excitement and unpredictability remain alive and well, promising exciting moments for years to come.
