He was bred and raced by San Antonio, Texas businessman Arthur A. Seeligson Jr. and trained by Tommy Doyle.
Under new jockey Bill Shoemaker, he finished second to the heavy favorite, Foolish Pleasure while beating Frank McMahon's highly regarded colt Diabolo (3rd), Golden Chance Farm's Master Derby (4th), and the second choice among bettors, Darby Dan Farm's Florida Derby winner Prince Thou Art (6th).
In the ensuing Preakness Stakes, Avatar moved with the leaders as the turned for home but faded to finish fifth behind upset winner Master Derby.
In what Sports Illustrated magazine described as "a pure and exquisite exhibition of the professional jockey at his very best", Bill Shoemaker rode him to victory over runner-up Foolish Pleasure and third-place finisher Master Derby.
His best results in important stakes races were a win in the 12 furlong San Luis Rey Handicap on turf and second-place finishes in the Hollywood Gold Cup, Del Mar Invitational Handicap, and San Fernando Stakes.