The Puma

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Who Is The Puma?

The Puma is a chestnut colt (reddish-brown young male horse) born February 7, 2023. His sire is Essential Quality, an accomplished racehorse who finished third in the Kentucky Derby and won  the Breeders' Cup Juvenile and ran third in the Breeders’ Cup Classic a year later. His dam, Eve of War, carries the bloodline of Declaration of War.

What Makes The Puma Special

The Puma won his most recent race on March 7, 2026, at Tampa Bay Downs in a stakes race at 1-1/16 miles, defeating the field by 3/4 length at impressive 7-1 odds. This victory shows he can handle classic distances (Kentucky Derby distance) and beat quality competition.

However, The Puma has only raced three times. His record is 1 win, 1 place, 1 show ($244,280 earned). He finished third in his previous stakes race on February 7 by 6 lengths, showing inconsistency.

What Matters: Why Root for The Puma

The Puma deserves attention for his recent winning form and impressive odds at which he won. His sire, Essential Quality, has proven Derby bloodlines. The March 7 victory demonstrates capability at classic distance and provides momentum heading into the final stages of Derby preparation.

Caution: Why He Might Not Win

The Puma has extremely limited racing experience with only three starts. Two scratches from races suggest possible training adjustments or soundness concerns. His overall record (1 win in 3 starts) is just 33%—not impressive compared to undefeated competitors. He finished 6 lengths back in his previous stakes attempt, which raises questions about consistency against top competition.

Racing History and Wins by The Puma

• Tampa Bay Downs (March 7, 2026):** He WON a Stakes race by 3/4 length — an impressive victory!
• Gulfstream Park (January 10, 2026):** He finished second in a Maiden Special Weight race by 1.5 lengths
• Tampa Bay Downs (February 7, 2026):** He finished third in a Stakes race — strong competition

THE PUMA had his running shoes on today and pounced on the favorites at 7/1 in the G3 Tampa Bay Derby to pick up 50 points towards Kentucky Derby 152! 🏆🌹

Gustavo Delgado trains the 3YO and @jjcjockey was aboard!

🎥 #TwinSpiresReplay pic.twitter.com/yYD0LqSu1b

— TwinSpires Racing 🏇 (@TwinSpires) March 7, 2026

The Puma’s Important Related Information

Kentucky Derby pedigree profile: The Puma

The Puma strikes in Tampa Bay Derby

Kentucky Derby Horse Profile: The Puma

The Puma earns maiden breaking win in Tampa Bay Derby