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The current season of equestrian races has almost come to an end. The Triple Crown races are done, and Saratoga Racetrack witnessed some of the greatest races last month. However, there are still some major horse racing events left for equestrian fans to enjoy. One of these is the upcoming Grade I Travers Stakes, which is going to happen this week. The Travers Stakes is already an esteemed event in the equestrian realm and is one of the biggest races for the three-year-olds out there. But this year’s Travers Stakes holds its own significance, as it has some great twists and turns awaiting.

The list of participants is already building hype around the world, as some of the greatest equine athletes are all set to lock horns this Saturday. In spite of the presence of these prominent contenders, another historic milestone is anticipated during this Mid-Summer Derby. This is something so big that it has not happened in the past few decades.

Travers Stakes poised for a remarkable achievement

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As per the reports of Horse Racing Nation, this $1.25 million event will witness all three triple crown winners compete under the same shed. This is something that hasn’t happened since 1982. This occurrence is also the first since 2017, and it coincides with the presence of last year’s 2-year-old champion. This is such a remarkable achievement for Mage, the 2023 Kentucky Derby winner; Arcangelo, the 2023 Belmont Stakes winner; and National Treasure, the 2023 Preakness Stakes winner. This is also going to be one of the most exciting races of this season, as Forte will also be participating alongside these three.

via Imago

But here is the big question: What are the odds? Forte seems to be the favorite for obvious reasons and holds 7-5 favorite odds. Arcangelo, who is rated as the second favorite, will have 5-2 odds among the seven-horse field. Mage, who made headlines after winning the Kentucky Derby in his maiden start, will have 4-1 odds. Apart from these three, there are four other three-year-olds who have their eyes set on the prize and could potentially cause an upset in the race. The upcoming Travers Stakes holds greater significance in the equestrian world, capturing the attention of enthusiasts and spectators alike.

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The significance of this Grade I equestrian event

The race was first held in 1864 and is one of the oldest equestrian races and is the oldest race for three-year-olds. It is held every year to honor the legacy of William Travers, who was the first president of Saratoga Racetrack. The inaugural season of this race was also won by William Travers when he took the A.J. Minor-trained Kentucky to the finish line. In 2015, there came a historic moment when the purse of this event was increased from $1.25 million to $1.6 million because of the involvement of American Pharaoh, who was the triple crown winner that year. Whirlway became the first horse ever in 1941 to win both the Triple Crown Races and the Travers Stakes.

Read More: Three-Year-Old Horse Worth $750,200 Sets Site on Major Grade 1 Equestrian Race

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As the equestrian season winds down, the anticipation for the Grade I Travers Stakes reaches its peak. With triple crown winners and top contenders vying for victory, this year’s event promises historic significance. The convergence of such esteemed competitors, including Mage, Arcangelo, and National Treasure, hasn’t been witnessed since 1982. The Travers Stakes continues to capture the essence of equestrian excellence, drawing enthusiasts and spectators into its storied legacy.

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