Magic Weisner Could Return to Training in Three Weeks

Magic Weisner, who burst onto the national stage after finishing just three-quarters of a length behind War Emblem in the Preakness Stakes (gr. I), is back at the track and could return to training within the next three weeks after contracting the West Nile virus.

Magic Weisner, who is owned, trained, and bred by Nancy Alberts, returned to his Laurel Park barn on Sept. 14 after being hospitalized at the University of Pennsylvania's New Bolton Center veterinary clinic for almost two weeks. The 3-year-old Ameri Valay gelding is being walked three times per day despite having swelling in his hind end.

Magic Weisner was diagnosed with the West Nile virus shortly after scratching from the Sept. 5 Pennsylvania Derby (gr. III). Magic Weisner was suffering from a 102-degree fever two days before the race and was sent to New Bolton after exhibiting signs of neurological disorders, including lack of coordination and balance.

Magic Weisner has won seven of 14 career starts, including the grade III Ohio Derby, with four seconds and earned $888,110. He finished second to War Emblem in the Haskell Invitational Handicap (gr. I) on Aug. 4 at Monmouth Park.