With an impressive win in the $1 million Pennsylvania Derby (G1) at PARX, Kentucky-bred The Puma turned in a performance that places him right alongside the top runners of the 3-year-old male division.
Trained by Gustavo Delgado for owners OGMA Investments LLC, High Step Racing, TCC Stables LLC, YNG Stables LLC and JR Ranch, The Puma settled at the back of the pack early in the 1 1/8-mile fixture. Ridden by Javier Castellano, he circled rivals six wide and took command in the stretch. He stretched his lead to three lengths in the lane. And with a strong late kick, withstood a bid from Grade 1 winner and fellow Kentucky-bred Further Ado to prevail. The Puma notched the initial Grade 1 win of his career by a half-length at the finish.
The Pennsylvania Derby score improved his record to 7-2-2-1 and the $555,000 winner’s share of the purse boosted his bankroll to $1,122,280. The Puma won this year’s Tampa Bay Derby (G3) in March and finished a close second in the Florida Derby (G1).
Bred in Kentucky by Hidden Brook Farm and Brian Kahn, The Puma was a $150,000 graduate of the 2025 OBS Spring Sale. He is produced from the graded stakes-placed Declaration of War mare Eve of War.