Magnitude arriving late on the scene, but is a serious Travers contender

SARATOGA SPRINGS — The road less traveled to the Travers this year went through Altoona, Iowa.

Trainer Steve Asmussen and owner Ron Winchell appeared to have one of the better 3-year-olds early this year, but an ankle chip prevented Magnitude from pursuing Kentucky Derby preps beyond a victory in the Grade II Risen Star at Fair Grounds in New Orleans on Feb. 15.