Magnitude Sharpens Form Ahead of Stephen Foster Showdown
LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Magnitude, winner of the Dubai World Cup (G1), continued his preparations for the Grade 1, $2 million Stephen Foster Stakes at Churchill Downs with a five‑furlong workout in 1:02.6 on Sunday morning.
Trained by Hall of Famer Steve Asmussen, the 4‑year‑old worked shortly after 6 a.m. EDTover a fast track, galloping out six furlongs in 1:15.8, according to Churchill Downs clocker John Nichols.
“He worked great this morning,” Asmussen said. “I’m very happy with how he’s doing and really looking forward to the matchup in the Stephen Foster.”
Churchill Graduate Returns Home
Magnitude began his career at Churchill Downs in June 2024 and has since compiled victories in the Clark Stakes (G2), Risen Star Stakes (G2), Razorback Handicap (G3), and the Iowa Derby.
The son of Not This Time achieved his most significant career win when he went gate‑to‑wire in the March 28 Dubai World Cup, marking the highlight of his 13‑race résumé.
Asmussen’s Foster Legacy
Asmussen has captured the Stephen Foster twice, with Curlin (2008) and Gun Runner (2017) — both of whom went on to earn Horse of the Year honors and later became leading stallions.
A total of four horses have used Stephen Foster victories as part of Horse of the Year campaigns:
- Black Tie Affair (1991)
- Saint Liam (2005)
- Curlin (2008)
- Gun Runner (2017)
Two Stephen Foster runners‑up later earned Horse of the Year titles — Mineshaft (2003) and Wise Dan (2012).
Entry Details and Breeders’ Cup Implications
Nominations for the 1 1⁄8‑mile Stephen Foster, dubbed the “Summer Showdown,” close Wednesday, June 10.
The race serves as a premier stop on the Breeders’ Cup Challenge Series: Win and You’re In Classic Division. The winner will receive an automatic berth into the $7 million Breeders’ Cup Classic, scheduled for October 31 at Keeneland, with pre‑entry and entry fees covered and a possible travel award of up to $10,000.
