The Puma Gears Up for "Second Season" in Haskell Stakes
Following an unforeseen medical issue that sidelined him from the Triple Crown series, the promising racehorse, The Puma, is poised to re-enter the competitive arena. His participation in the prestigious Haskell Stakes signals a renewed ambition to demonstrate his capabilities against the top contenders in the three-year-old category, with his team optimistic about his physical condition and preparation.
The Puma's Comeback Trail to the Haskell Stakes
On July 15, 2026, Monmouth Park announced that "The Puma," a highly-regarded three-year-old colt, is ready to launch his "second season" in the Grade 1, $1 million Haskell Stakes. This comeback follows a significant setback earlier in the year when a leg infection forced him to withdraw from the Kentucky Derby just hours before the race, despite being among the favorites. Gustavo Delgado Jr., assistant to his father and head trainer Gustavo Delgado Sr., confirmed the horse's excellent condition, stating, "He’s had five or six breezes since the (Kentucky) Derby and in that last breeze he showed us everything we wanted to see. We think he’s ready." The Puma, jointly owned by OGMA Investments, JR Ranch, and High Step Racing, was a strong contender in the Triple Crown lead-up, securing a win in the Tampa Bay Derby (G3) and a narrow second-place finish to Further Ado in the Florida Derby (G1), who is also slated to run in the Haskell. His early success had placed him sixth on the Kentucky Derby leaderboard. The Delgados believe the enforced recovery period will benefit The Puma. On Wednesday morning, the colt was seen completing a mile jog and a mile gallop around the Monmouth Park track. The Haskell Stakes not only offers a substantial purse but also serves as a "win and you’re in" qualifier for the $7 million Breeders’ Cup Classic at Keeneland on October 31. This season marks a crucial phase for The Puma, a son of the 2021 Belmont Stakes winner Essential Quality, who began his racing career in January at Gulfstream Park. Hall of Fame jockey Javier Castellano, who has been The Puma's regular rider, will unfortunately be absent due to injuries sustained in a recent spill at Saratoga. Luis Saez will step in to ride The Puma in the Haskell. Delgado Jr. expressed regret over Castellano’s injury but confidence in Saez, noting, "He was actively looking for the mount, and those are the things that you want to hear." Saez brings a strong track record to the Haskell, having secured two wins in the race previously. Despite the jockey change, the team remains focused on The Puma's performance. The Delgados, known for their boutique operation, emphasize a long-term strategy, prioritizing a strong showing in the Haskell as a foundation for future races. Delgado Jr. concluded, "We want to see a good effort and take it from there. There are still a lot of good races down the road. It’s a long season for these 3-year-olds."
This narrative serves as a poignant reminder that even the most meticulously planned journeys can face unexpected detours. The Puma's story exemplifies resilience and the dedication required in competitive sports. It underscores the importance of a strong support system, from trainers to jockeys, in navigating challenges. Furthermore, it highlights how a single event, like a prestigious race, can reshape a career trajectory, not just for the horse but for everyone invested in its success. It also emphasizes the long view in sports, where individual races contribute to a broader narrative of an athlete's potential and development over time.