2010 Travers Stakes Winner is Afleet Express By A Nose

The action at Saratoga Saturday afternoon was fast and furious, particularly near the end. (AP Images)

The 2010 Travers Stakes couldn't have ended any better for Afleet Express trainer Jimmy Jerkens and jockey Javier Castellano.

With the win within reach, Castellano made darn sure Afleet Express was not about to lose the Travers to a fast and furious finish by Fly Down as he kept his horse focused down the home stretch to win the race by a nose. Belmont Stakes runner-up Fly Down and rider Jose Lezcano once again had to settle for the runner-up prize, with First Dude finishing third and Afleet Again taking fourth.

Kentucky Derby winner Super Saver finished out of the top three for his third straight defeat since winning the first of three Triple Crown races earlier this year.

Interestingly enough, Afleet Again and Admiral Alex, who finished last this afternoon, were also sired by 2005 Preakness Stakes and Belmont Stakes winner Afleet Alex. Horse racing fans may remember that Afleet Express won the Pegasus in June and placed third in the Jim Dandy on July 31. For today’s win, Afleet Express returned $16.00, $7.80 and $4.90. Fly Down paid $6.90 and $5.20, and First Dude paid $4.60 to show.

And so...in an important race that may not have had any clear favorites -- the 2010 Travers Stakes clearly delivered a thrilling finish.

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