The year 2023 has proven to be a mighty slugfest so far. The equestrian world is witnessing great competition between the rookie horses of all stables. With the mighty Flightline off the racetracks for the whole year, every trainer is trying to make the most of their horses. Joining the bandwagon, legendary equestrian trainer Bob Baffert has also brought one of his finest geldings to the muddy racetracks for a showdown.

Defunded is a five-year-old gelding. He is under the training of Hall of Famer equestrian trainer Bob Baffert. The rookie horse, valued at $1,588,100, has made a total of 17 career starts but has won seven of them. In fact, it has won two out of four races this year, coming second and third in the other two. However, the competition doesn’t get any easier for it as several great competitors guard the finish line.

Equestrian trainer says racehorse is its own worst enemy

The habit of self-sabotage isn’t limited to humans. Defunded is currently preparing for a whole roadmap ahead, as is expected from its visionary equestrian trainer. Baffert plans to run his rookie gelding at the upcoming Grade 2 San Diego Handicap at Del Mar. Several promising horses, like Geaux Rocket Ride, Mage, Cody’s Wish, etc., will partake in the race. While Defunded will be facing cut-throat competition at the race, it will have the support of Baffert. 

According to Bloodhorse, Baffert has won the Del Mar Futurity event 17 times. Moreover, the road for the upcoming Breeders’ Cup will also be easier to tread for Defunded. The Hall of Famer equestrian carries 18 Breeders’ Cup victories under his belt. The only thing getting in the way of Defunded will be its own self. Baffert said that Defunded, unfortunately, finished in seventh position last time despite leading the race for the most part. Baffert said that he had to take a drastic step to keep the horse in check.

West Coast’s best handicap horse

Defunded has already turned a lot of heads in its direction after winning the Grade 1 Hollywood Gold Cup. It is probably even the best handicap horse on the West Coast. However, Baffert says that Defunded gets too excited while racing. He said that its excitement makes it lose focus and rhythm, which results in the talented horse’s downfall. To get the horse more stable and focused, Baffert had to go unwillingly geld the horse.

ALSO READ – After a $1,500,000 Victory, Rising Rookie Worth $780,200 Eyes Major Equestrian Venue

Last year’s defending champion, Royal Ship, will also be participating in the race. However, it has failed to win any race since its victory at Del Mar. But, while Defunded has the support of veteran equestrian trainer Bob Baffert, Royal Ship also has veteran trainer Richard Mandella in its corner. Baffert is confident about winning the race with his trusted gelding. However, only time can unfold what happens next.

WATCH STORY – Mastering Equestrian Anxiety: Five Powerful Mindset Techniques to Overcome Fear in Horse Riding