Maximum Security could rename Travers the Redemption Stakes this year

By John Sapochetti despite crossing the finish line first, was disqualified for interference and placed 17th in a 19 horse field. Long shot Country House was awarded the victory. Maximum Security had the look of a Triple Crown winner, but following the disqualification, that dream died — and so did the dream of racing fans embracing a bonafide superstar.

Two weeks later, War Of Will won a lackluster Preakness which drew the lowest television ratings in the race’s history.

Three weeks after that, Sir Winston captured the Belmont in a race that produced very little interest or excitement.

But as is often the case, horse racing can bounce back from a disastrous spring. This takes us to this year’s Travers’ Stakes, which is the crown jewel of the Saratoga meet. The talented and deep field for that race is coming into focus.

After bypassing the Preakness and Belmont, Maximum Security returned to the track at Monmouth Park, finishing 2nd in the Pegasus and winning the Haskell by a length. The impressive bay colt is slated to run in the Travers, where he should be the favorite. That gives the race a mega talent that should bring fans to the track and viewers to the telecast.

Maximum Security has five wins and one second place finish in seven career starts. His only result outside the money was his disqualification at the Kentucky Derby.

If he wins the Travers and the Breeders Cup Classic this fall, the son of New Year’s Day out of an Anasheed mare - Lil Indy- would be In serious contention for Horse of the Year. He is that good.

In addition to Maximum Security, look for horses coming out of yesterday’s Grade 2 Jim Dandy at Saratoga such as,War Of Will, Tacitus & Global Campaign to be factors in the Travers. Also, Friday’s Curlin Stakes winner Highest Honors is expected to participate in the race.

Any three year old’s performing well at this Saturday’s Grade 1 Whitney could also be factors in what promises to be a starstudded field for the 150th running of the Travers, also known as the “Mid-Summer Derby”.

Horse racing mirrors life in that the opportunity exists for redemption. Maximum Security and his connections could redeem themselves after a humiliating Kentucky Derby. Already with wins at the Florida Derby and the Haskell, the Jason Servis trained colt could go from goat to horse of the year with a Travers win coupled with a Breeders’ Cup Classic victory on November 2nd at Santa Anita Park.

Not bad at all for a horse who could have been claimed seven months ago for $16,000.

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