Why would they run Hansen in the Iowa Derby?

Prep race for the G1 Travers Stakes at Saratoga Park on August 25.

Aaron is correct!! Travers is Long-Range Goal for Hansen! Hansen will target the $1 million Travers Stakes (gr. I) Aug. 25, with prep races scheduled in either the Iowa Derby (gr. III) at Prairie Meadows or Red Legend Stakes at Hollywood Casino at Charles Town and then the West Virginia Derby (gr. III) at Mountaineer Casino Racetrack & Resort. Dr. Hansen said the Iowa Derby is the more likely of the two races.

Here's the complete article link from Blood Horse- Great info. write up. Enjoy!

http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/70...

:)

horses race everyday, in smaller races as well as Grade I. they're just racing him to hopefully get another win under his name, & to also keep him in shape & make sure he is well enough to race in the bigger races. probably prepping him for the Grade I Travers Stakes at Saratoga in August. in a year, running just in the Derby, Preakness, & the Belmont is not the horse's entire career. they usually always have a 2 year old season, as well as a 4+ season before retiring going to stud. (unless they are a gelding which Hansen is not.)

(:

Racing does not end or start with the three big ones. There is racing everyday. After the Belmont, trainers pick up "traps" and go to Saratoga. It's famous for riding in August.