Speed figures are crucial for assessing racehorses, but class often determines outcomes when top-level competition is involved. This dynamic will be tested on August 23 in the $1.25 million Travers Stakes (G1) at Saratoga, where Winchell Thoroughbreds’ Magnitude makes his grade 1 debut against Sovereignty, the nation’s leading 3-year-old and winner of the Kentucky Derby and Belmont Stakes. Magnitude, trained by Steve Asmussen and sired by Not This Time, has posted impressive speed figures in lower-level races, including a dominant 9 3/4-length win in the Risen Star Stakes and a commanding victory in the Iowa Derby, despite a long layoff due to surgery for a bone chip.

Magnitude’s connections believe his talent and speed figures position him as a serious contender against Sovereignty, even though the Travers will be his longest race at 1 1/4 miles. After showing promise but no standout performances as a 2-year-old, Magnitude’s breakthrough came in early 2023, revealing a previously unseen dimension of speed and stamina. His jockey and team are optimistic about his ability to handle the step up in class and distance, viewing the Travers as his chance to shine on a stage similar to the Kentucky Derby, which he missed due to injury. The race will highlight the ongoing contest between raw speed and proven class in determining the top 3-year-old male.