Think Big Stretches Out for Kelso Stakes Victory at Saratoga
Table of Contents
- 1. Think Big Stretches Out for Kelso Stakes Victory at Saratoga
- 2. Think Big’s Triumph: A Shift in Strategy
- 3. The Race Unfolds: Key Moments
- 4. Trainer’s Perspective and Future Plans
- 5. Final Standings and What’s Next
- 6. The Growing Popularity of Horse Racing
- 7. Hear are some PAA (People Also Ask) related questions for the article “Think Big Wins G3 Kelso Stakes – 2023 Recap: A Race for the Books”:
- 8. Think Big Wins G3 Kelso Stakes – 2023 Recap: A Race for the Books
- 9. Race Results and Key Statistics
- 10. Think Big’s Dominance: Performance Analysis
- 11. Other Notable Performances: A Look at the competition
- 12. impact and Implications for Future races
Saratoga Race Course, July 6, 2025 – Think Big, a Kentucky-bred homebred from Godolphin, demonstrated remarkable stamina, surging late to capture the Grade 3, $175,000 Kelso Stakes on Saturday. The one-mile inner turf test, a feature of the July 4th Racing Festival’s Day Three, saw Think Big overtake the 9/5 favorite, Intellect, in a thrilling finish.
Trained by Michael Stidham, the 4-year-old Twirling Candy gelding had previously focused on shorter distances. This victory opens new possibilities for the promising colt.
Think Big’s Triumph: A Shift in Strategy
Think Big, previously known for his success in 5 1/2-furlong races, including the Grade 2 Shakertown in April at Keeneland and the Grade 2 turf Sprint in May at Churchill Downs, proved his versatility. This win at the Kelso Stakes avenged a disappointing run in the Grade 1 Jaipur and suggests a bright future.
Michael Stidham revealed that stretching Think Big out in distance had been a consideration for some time. “We always planned to test his ability up to a mile,” Stidham explained. “the unfavorable outcome of the last race provided the perfect prospect.”
The Race Unfolds: Key Moments
Donegal Momentum initially broke sharply, but Arzak surged ahead, setting a speedy pace. Think Big strategically stalked from fourth position, conserving energy for a late push. A stumble by Donegal Momentum altered the race dynamics, creating an opening for Think Big.
Intellect challenged in the stretch, but Think Big unleashed a powerful turn-of-foot, securing a one-length victory in a final time of 1:32.81.
Jockey Irad Ortiz, Jr. praised Think Big’s performance: “The horse was traveling well throughout. I was able to get a nice trip, split horses, and my horse gave me an explosive kick.”
Did You Know? Saratoga Race Course, established in 1863, is the oldest continually operating thoroughbred racetrack in the united states.
Trainer’s Perspective and Future Plans
Stidham initially doubted Think Big’s chances in the final stretch. “It seemed like we were losing ground, and I didn’t think we had a shot,” Stidham admitted. “But he showed the same unbelievable turn-of-foot he displays at five and a half furlongs, which is rare for a horse going a mile. That’s what impressed me the most.”
Think Big’s victory positions him for a potential start in the Grade 1, $750,000 FanDuel Fourstardave on August 2, a “Win and You’re In” qualifier for the Grade 1 Breeders’ Cup Mile in november.
“It certainly factors into our plans,” Stidham confirmed. “We hope this will be the Grade 1 opportunity we missed last time.”
Final Standings and What’s Next
win for the Money finished 1 1/4-lengths behind in third, followed by Neat, Mountain Bear, and Arzak.Thankfully, Donegal Momentum appeared to be unharmed after his stumble.Live racing continues at Saratoga on Sunday with a 10-race card.
| Position | Horse | Jockey |
|---|---|---|
| 1st | Think Big | Irad Ortiz Jr. |
| 2nd | Intellect | Flavien Prat |
| 3rd | Win for the Money | – |
The Growing Popularity of Horse Racing
Horse racing continues to captivate audiences worldwide, blending tradition with thrilling competition. Modern technologies, including advanced data analytics and elegant wagering platforms, enhance the experience for both seasoned fans and newcomers. Tracks are also focusing on better horse care thanks to groups like the national thoroughbred Racing Association.
What did you think of Think Big’s performance? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Think Big Wins G3 Kelso Stakes – 2023 Recap: A Race for the Books
The 2023 edition of the G3 Kelso Stakes was a race that will be remembered, especially for the dominant performance of Think Big. This article provides a comprehensive recap of the race, including the final results, jockey details, thoroughbred performance analysis, and post-race reactions. We’ll break down Think Big’s strategy, the challenging conditions, and the key moments that led to his victory, along with the performances of the other horses. Consider this your all-in-one Kelso Stakes recap for 2023.
Race Results and Key Statistics
The Kelso Stakes, a prestigious race in the horse racing calendar, always draws a competitive field. In 2023, the competition was fierce, but Think Big rose to the occasion. Here’s a breakdown of the top finishers:
| Position | Horse | Jockey | Trainer | Time | Odds |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st | Think Big | (Jockey name) | (Trainer Name) | (Race Time) | (Odds) |
| 2nd | (Second Place Horse) | (Second place Jockey) | (Second Place Trainer) | (Race Time) | (Odds) |
| 3rd | (Third Place Horse) | (Third Place Jockey) | (Third Place Trainer) | (Race Time) | (Odds) |
Think Big’s Dominance: Performance Analysis
Think Big’s performance was nothing short of extraordinary. [Include a detailed description of the race]. Key factors contributing to his success included:
- Strategic Positioning: [describe the race strategy – leading from the front, etc.]
- Exceptional Stamina: [Detail the horse’s endurance throughout the race.]
- Jockey’s expertise: [Highlight the jockey’s role in the victory.]
Other Notable Performances: A Look at the competition
While Think Big stole the show,the other horses also put in notable performances. Here’s a brief review of the other top finishers:
- [Second Place Horse]: [Brief description of the second place horse’s tactics, strengths, and performance.]
- [Third place Horse]: [Brief description of the third place horse’s tactics, strengths, and performance.]
impact and Implications for Future races
Think Big’s victory in the 2023 Kelso Stakes has significant implications. [Discuss the potential future of Think Big and competitors]. The win positions Think Big as a contender for other top races. This race underscored the importance of factors such as horse health, jockey strategy, and prevailing track conditions.
For those following horse racing, staying informed on race details, horse racing news, and understanding the impact of each race is essential. Looking ahead, the racing world should focus on how these results might shape future races and the strategic planning of trainers and jockeys.
