Godolphin’s dual classic winner, Sovereignty, made a strong return to training at the Oklahomadart track following his one-length victory at the Gym Dandy (G2) on July 26. Under the guidance of Neil Poznanski, Sovereignty completed a solo half-mile workout in 48.89 seconds and galloped five furlongs in 1:02 2/5, showing great readiness. Hall of Fame trainer Bill Mott, watching from atop his Pony Rocky, expressed satisfaction with the horse’s condition and enthusiasm. Sovereignty, with over $5 million in earnings this year, is a leading contender for the Travers Stakes, adding to his impressive resume that includes Grade 1 wins at the Kentucky Derby and Belmont Stakes, as well as Grade 3 victories at Street Sense. His main competition includes Journalism, a Grade 1 Preakness and Haskell winner, whom Sovereignty has beaten twice this year.
Another notable contender for the Travers is Winchell Stables’ Grade 2 winner, Magnitude, trained by Steve Asmussen. Magnitude, who recently impressed with a strong workout, previously won the Iowa Derby and the Grade 2 Risen Star, showing steady improvement. Despite missing the Triple Crown due to an ankle injury, Magnitude is thriving and eyeing a strong performance at the Travers, hoping to bring Asmussen his second win at this prestigious event.
Klaravich Stables’ Strategic Focus, winner of the Carlin Stakes (L) last month, is also sharpening up, completing a half-mile workout in 49.34 seconds under trainer Chad Brown. Brown remains optimistic about both Strategic Focus and fellow stablemate Chance MacPatrick, the latter targeting the $500,000 H. Allen Jerkens Memorial (G1). Meanwhile, Brown’s mares, Randomization and Raging Sea, are prepping for the Travers undercard races, both showing promising form and aiming for Grade 1 victories.
This detailed preview, originally from Paulick Report, highlights key contenders and training updates as the racing community gears up for the Travers Stakes, one of the sport’s most anticipated events.
Fan Take: This update is exciting for horse racing enthusiasts as it showcases top contenders’ preparations and form heading into the Travers Stakes, a race that significantly shapes the sport’s narrative each year. Watching rising stars like Sovereignty and Magnitude compete promises thrilling moments and helps keep the sport’s tradition of excellence alive.
