Gary Barber’s Wonder Gadot drew the second post position in a field of 11 gathered for Saturday’s Grade 1, $1.25 million Travers Stakes at Saratoga. The filly  exited her final breeze in good order and will be ridden by IRAD ORTIZ.

Wonder Gadot relaxes post-training at Saratoga Racetrack. Cody Greco Photo

A decision by Barber regarding the riding assignment for Wonder Gadot in the Travers came Monday. Casse mentioned Hall of Famer Mike Smith, Florent Geroux, and Tyler Gaffalione as possibilities for the call but when Hofburg scratched and Ortiz, the leading rider at Saratoga became available, the decision was made.

Jockey John Velazquez, who has ridden Wonder Gadot in some of her biggest races, will be aboard Vinno Rosso in the Mid-Summer Derby, trained by Todd Pletcher for St. Elias Stables and Repole Stable.

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