The first Saratoga work for Kentucky Derby (G1) winner Mage is almost here.
Trainer Gustavo Delgado said the son of Good Magic will begin training on the main track at Saratoga Race Course on July 31 and the first work could be on Aug. 4.
Since arriving in the Spa City on July 24 following a runner-up performance in the Haskell Stakes (G1) at Monmouth Park July 22, Mage has been training on the Oklahoma Training Track, right next door to Delgado's barn. He and exercise rider J. J. Delgado (no relation) were out July 29 galloping on the Oklahoma just before 8 a.m. ET
Mage has been going to the track at 7:30 a.m. but Delgado said that could change when the popular chestnut moves across the street.
"He is very happy," Delgado said of his barn star. "He loves being in Saratoga. Me, too."
Mage will have three works at the Spa before running in the $1.25 million Travers Stakes (G1) on Aug 26. Delgado said he is not going to fret about who will be riding the colt in the Midsummer Derby.
Hall of Fame jockey Javier Castellano has to make the decision as he is the regular rider of Belmont Stakes (G1) winner Arcangelo as well as Mage..
"It's possible that Ramiro will ride," Delgado said with a smile.
That would be co-owner Ramiro Restrepo, who was standing next to his trainer.
Delgado then answered with sincerity, explaining he was not going to worry about thing he can not control.
"This race (Travers), all the best riders are at Saratoga," Delgado said "The field for the Travers may be short."
