The Grade 1, $1.25 million Travers Stakes at Saratoga Race Course is shaping up to be a historic event, especially for trainer Kenny McPeek. Fresh off an unprecedented achievement—winning both the Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks in the same year—McPeek now aims to add another milestone to his storied career. On Saturday, August 24th, McPeek will send out Thorpedo Anna, his Kentucky Oaks champion, to challenge seven top-tier 3-year-old males in the “Mid-Summer Derby.”
Thorpedo Anna’s participation in the Travers Stakes marks a rare occurrence, as she attempts to become the first filly since Lady Rotha in 1915 to win this prestigious race. Her journey has been nothing short of spectacular, and she is now on the cusp of making history once again.
Drawing the rail position, Thorpedo Anna was installed as the co-second choice at 3-1, sharing this distinction with Fierceness. Fierceness who won the Jim Dandy at Saratoga in his last start and drew post 8. The morning-line favorite, at 5-2, is Dornoch, who has already captured both the Belmont Stakes and the Haskell Invitational this year. Dornoch will break from post 7, making him a formidable contender in the 1 1/4-mile classic.
Another key player in the Travers field is Sierra Leone, who finished second in the Kentucky Derby and third in the Belmont Stakes. Drawing post 2, Sierra Leone comes in as the 7-2 fourth choice, a position that indicates respect from the betting public while acknowledging the stiff competition.
The field is rounded out by Unmatched Wisdom (post 3, 8-1), Corporate Power (post 4, 15-1), Batten Down (post 5, 20-1), and Honor Marie (post 6, 20-1). Each of these entrants brings a unique set of strengths to the race, making the Travers an open and competitive affair.
With a field of this caliber, the 2024 Travers Stakes promises to be a thrilling contest. Thorpedo Anna’s attempt to join the ranks of racing legends will be the focal point, but she’ll need to overcome a talented group of colts, including the formidable Dornoch and the ever-consistent Sierra Leone. As the “Mid-Summer Derby” approaches, all eyes will be on Saratoga to see if McPeek and his star filly can once again etch their names into the annals of racing history.
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