Golden Tempo Post 9, Travers Favorite

Golden Tempo, the Kentucky Derby and Belmont Stakes winner, is the 5-2 morning-line favorite for the $1.25 million Travers Stakes at Saratoga, a race that could shape year-end honors and Horse of the Year debates. Jockey Jose Ortiz, aiming to set a Saratoga meet wins record, will ride Golden Tempo as he attempts to win the Travers after going 0-for-10 in the race; Ortiz has ridden the colt in all six starts, including a blinkers upgrade that trainer Cherie DeVaux says triggered a turning point. The field includes Renegade as the 3-1 second choice, with post positions and the 10-furlong distance highlighted as the contest’s centerpiece of a 14-race card. Golden Tempo’s camp notes it has rebounded from a brief illness and weight loss with strong recent works, including a four-furlong breeze in 49.66 seconds, as DeVaux and Ortiz keep a steady, relaxed approach toward the Travers. Trainers emphasized Golden Tempo’s calm, battle-ready demeanor and the plan to train up to the race, skipping the Jim Dandy to maintain peak form, with the race set to be broadcast as part of FOX’s Saratoga coverage.