In equestrian sports, there are times when horses perform well, but sometimes they fail to live up to expectations. But that does not make them any less of a performer, and their skills should not be questioned. Victories and defeats are intrinsic to the sport, but the crucial aspect is its relentless forward momentum, regardless of the on-ground outcomes. Along similar lines, the three-year-old famed equestrian runner, Mage, who made history in May, had to face a saddening defeat at a Grade I equestrian race recently.

The colt was not even close to his counterparts and finished last in the race. Equestrian enthusiasts started to question his abilities. But his owner and trainer have faith in this young blood and are optimistic about his future. During a recent conversation, one of his owners revealed what went wrong during the race and what their plans were to get him back on the track.

The updates on Mage’s unfortunate loss

As reported by Blood Horse, in a surprising turn of events, Mage finished last on Saturday during the Grade 1 Travers Stakes at Saratoga Racecourse. Talking about his disappointing loss, Ramiro Restrepo, who is a member of Mage’s ownership group, stated, “We know he can run more than the four furlongs that he ran, but a lot of big horses did not run to expectations that day and weekend at Saratoga.” He further added that Mage is doing great, is in fit and fine condition, and does not have any injuries or anything to be concerned about. He also emphasized the fact that Mage did not end up in last place after just half a mile. The team is now focusing on Mage’s preparations for the upcoming events, and this race is not going to impact his performance.

Mage did not have the greatest of starts at Saratoga, which ultimately led to a seventh-place finish in the six furlongs of the mile-and-a-quarter race. He finished 15 lengths behind Arcangelo, who was declared the winner. Arcangelo was also the winner of the Grade 1 Belmont Stakes organized in June this year. Mage had a great 2023 season prior to this race, as he won the Kentucky Derby out of nowhere and also finished third in the Grade 1 Preakness Stakes. He also placed second in the Grade 1 Haskell Stakes. So it pretty much sums up that this three-year-old has many healthy races left in him and won’t give up that easy.

His equestrian career so far

He made his professional equestrian debut this year and became a much-buzzed-about horse in no time. His lineage traces back to his sire, Good Magic, and his dam, Puca. The colt is being trained by Gustavo Delgado and is owned by OGMA Investments, LLC, Restrepo, Ramiro, Sterling Racing LLC, and CMNWLTH.

He has raced at almost every renowned race track, which includes Churchill Downs, Gulfstream Park, Monmouth Park, Saratoga Racetrack, etc.

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In seven starts so far, Mage has captured the numero uno spot in two of them while finishing second in two of them. His career is already worth over $2,507,450 and has a long way to go.

On the same note, in May, the three-year-old made many heads turn his way through his incredible performance at the Churchill Downs. Leaving his counterparts behind, Mage stood atop the podium by winning the blanket of roses.

Read More: “Riders Were in Tears”: Equestrian Coach Highlights on Team’s Historic Performance Despite Treacherous Conditions

In the realm of equestrian sports, victories and setbacks are intrinsic. Mage’s recent defeat at the Grade I Travers Stakes may have raised questions, but setbacks are a part of the journey. Owners and trainers maintain their faith, looking ahead to better races. Mage’s potential remains, testament to his history-making Kentucky Derby win and promising season.

Watch The Story: After Five Horses Meet Their Death At Belmont Park, New York Racing Association Releases Statement of Equine Safety