Travers Stakes Winner Leading Change Returns to Churchill Downs Base

The landscape of the 3-year-old division shifted significantly at Saratoga Race Course this past weekend, as Brad Cox-trained colt Leading Change captured the 157th running of the Travers Stakes. The $1.25 million race saw the relatively inexperienced colt defeat Preakness winner Napoleon Solo by a half-length, while Kentucky Derby and Belmont Stakes winner Golden Tempo finished third.

Despite having only two career starts prior to the Midsummer Derby, Cox indicated that Leading Change has always stood out among a stable that includes Grade 1 winner Commandment. Jockey Manny Franco secured his second Travers victory, having previously won the event in 2020.

Following the victory, the colt is set to ship back to his home base at Churchill Downs Incorporated. While a start in the Breeders’ Cup Classic at Keeneland in October is a possibility, Cox emphasized that the stable is taking a long-term approach to the horse’s development due to his limited racing history. The trainer noted that while they are looking at the Classic, it could potentially be the 2027 running rather than this year’s. Owners Wathnan Racing are also eyeing the Dubai World Cup as a major future objective.

Elsewhere on the Travers Day card, Cherie DeVaux’s sprinter Englishman delivered a dominant performance in the Grade 1 H. Allen Jerkens Memorial. Meanwhile, Chad Summers, trainer of runner-up Napoleon Solo, indicated that the Preakness winner may target either the Breeders’ Cup Classic or the Dirt Mile for his next start.

Churchill Downs Incorporated (CHDN) operates the track where Leading Change is stabled and is a key player in the live racing and wagering sectors. The company’s shares were recently trading flat, with the market capitalization standing at approximately $6.52 billion.

What to watch

• Announcements regarding specific entries for the Breeders’ Cup Classic in November.
• Leading Change’s race schedule for the 2027 season.
• Target race selection for Napoleon Solo (Classic vs. Dirt Mile).

Source: original release