Ariete Arrollador 2nd and Plantagenet 4th in Meydan yesterday

Ariete Arrollador (GB, 2007), bay colt [Kingsalsa-Proud Douna(Kaldoun)], owned by Cuadra Albero, trained by G. Arizkorreta and ridden by Christophe Soumillon, was 2nd yesterday in Meydan in the Longines Saint Imier Handicap (1,400 m, all-weather track) at the Meydan racecourse. He encountered some problems at the far stretch and was boxed along the rail for most of the race, although he showed a nice turn of foot when he had a gap to proggress. The race was won by Lily's Angel

Here is the video: Longines Saint Imier
Ariete is a black horse, Soumillon wears yellowish orange silks

In the fourth race, Plantagenet (SPA, 2007) [Trade Fair-Crafty Buzz(Crafty Prospector)], owned by Cuadra Whylar, trained by G Arizkorreta and ridden by Jose Luis Martínez, was fourth in the Longines Prima Luna Handicap (1,900 m, all weather track). Plantagenet, who is already winner in Dubai, won the 2010 GP Villapadierna (Spanish Derby)

Here is the video: Longines Prima Luna Handicap
Plantagenet starts from the outermost post. Jose Luis Martinez wears black silks (red cap).

GP Memorial Duque de Toledo and Gran Critérium this Sunday at La Zarzuela

Next Sunday at La Zarzuela there is a meeting with 7 races including the Memorial Duque de Toledo (2,400 m, 3yo+, weight for age, 30,000 euros for the winner), one of the highlights of the season and the Gran Critérium (1,600 m, 2yo, 24,000 euros for the winner)


GP Memorial Duque de Toledo
2,400 m,  3yo+, weight for age, 30,000 euros

The field of this year includes four Classic winners: Domeside, Plantagenet, Pazifiksturm and Fortun, along with the winners of the prep races, Kurdo and Ranyan, Arnuero (2nd last year) and G3 placed Casaca. The Memorial Duque de Toledo is included in the list of races under consideration for inclusion at Listed level.  These are the participants:

Arnuero (GB, 2008), bay colt [Sakhee-Penang Pearl(Bering)], owned by Cuadra Medreal, trained by M. Delcher S, will be ridden by Oscar Ortiz de Urbina. He was second last year to Ayanz. He prefers soft going.

Domeside (GB, 2006), bay colt [Domedriver-Buck's Fizz(Kris)], owned by Cuadra Safsaf, trained by M. Delcher S., will be ridden by J. Grosjean.Winner of the 2009 Villapadierna (Spanish Derby), he is somewhat irregular

Entre Copas (GB, 2004), ch. gelding [Sakhee-Priena(Priolo)], owned by Cuadra África, trained by J. M. Osorio, will be ridden by A. Gómez. The Horse of the Year in 2011 is not having a good year and stable jockey Crocquevieille has chosen her sister Casaca.

Kurdo (FR, 2008), bay colt [Baptize-La Sayida(Fairy King)], owned by Yeguada AGF, trained by G. Arizkorreta, will be ridden by V. Janacek. .He won the preparatory race.

Pazifizsturm (GER. 2007) [Samum-La Parabol(Trempolino)], owned by Cuadra Martul, trained by Ana Imaz Ceca, will be ridden by J. B. Hamel. Winner of the Mijas Cup,also won in Morocco and the Copa de Oro de San Sebastián. He will be the favourite and his win would mean an outstanding year. He is a Classic winner of the Premio Villamejor (Spanish St. Leger)


Plantagenet (SPA, 2007) [Trade Fair-Crafty Buzz(Crafty Prospector)], owned by Cuadra Whylar, trained by G Arizkorreta, will be ridden by J. L. Martínez. Winner of the 2010 GP Villapadierna (Spanish Derby), the first Spanish bred winner in Dubai.


Casaca (GB, 2007), ch. flly [Medicean-Priena(Priolo)], owned by Cuadra África, trained by J. M. Osorio, will be ridden by J. Crocquevieille..She was 2nd to Skinside in the Benítez de Lugo. She runs against her brother Entre Copas for the first time.

Arsalan (GB, 2009), bay colt [Halling-Kali(Linamix)], owned by Reza Pazooki, trained by F. Rodríguez, will be ridden by M. Borrego

Fortun (IRE, 2009), a bay colt [Bachelor Duke-Duckmore Bay(Titus Livius)], owned by Cuadra La Toledana, trained by J. L. Maroto, will be ridden by J. L. Borrego. Winner of the Villapadierna (Spanish Derby).

Ranyan (SPA, 2009), ch. gelding [Gold Away-Triple Two(Pivotal)], owned by Cuadra Agrado, trained by Teo Callejo, will be ridden by J. Claudic

Azafata (SPA, 2009) [Motivator-Anysheba(Alysheba)]. owned by cuadra Chamartín, trained by J. López, will be ridden by J. Horcajada

Recent winners of the Memorial Duque de Toledo have been: Ayanz (2011), Karluv Most (2010), You or No One (2009), Blue Ridge View (2008), Young Tiger (2007 and 2005) and Jade (2006)


Gran Critérium
1,600 m, 2yo, 24,000 euros

Acamante (GB, 2010), bay colt [Sakhee-Xaluna Bay (Xaar)], onwed by the Duque de Alburquerque, trained by J. M. Osorio, will be ridden by A. Gómez. Debutant.

Calamari (FR, 2010), bay colt [Turtle Bowl-Gold Mine(Gold Away)], owned by R. Cocheteaux, trained by J. M. Osorio, will be ridden by J. Crocquevieille

Capearth (IRE, 2010), bay colt [Alhaarth-Antigone(Cape Cross)], owned by Cuadra Martul, trained by A. Imaz, will be ridden by J. B. Hamel

Dagoberto (SPA, 2010), bay colt [Dyhim Diamond-La Atalaya(Montjeu)], owned by Cuadra Nanina, trained by Teo Callejo, will be ridden by Oscar Ortiz de Urbina

Irish Sand (IRE, 2010), ch. colt [Footstepsinthesand-Knysna(Rock of Gibraltar)], onwed by Cuadra Martul, trained by A. Imaz., will be ridden by M. Foulon.

Kiril (FR, 2010), bay colt [Astronomer Royal-Solita(Thunder Gulch)], owned by Cuadra Madroños, trained by M. Delcher, will be ridden by J. Horcajada.

Moss (SPA, 2010), ch. colt [Palamoss-Falaris(Humool)], owned by Yeguada AGF, trained by G. Arizkorreta, will be ridden by V. Janacek.

Mou the Special (IRE, 2010), ch. colt [Refuse to Bend-Flagship(Rainbow Quest)], owned by Cuadra Los Toneles, trained by F. Rodríguez, will be ridden by J. L. Martínez

Sleeping Wan (GB, 2010), chestnut colt [Sleeping Indian-Vivre Sa Vie(Nashwan)], owned by Cuadra Martul, trained by Ana Imaz, will be ridden by G. Madero

Pearlside (FR, 2010), bay filly [Alhaarth-Prickly Pearl(Lahib)], owned by Cuadra Madroños, trained by M. Delcher S, will be ridden by J. Grosjean. She won the Carlos Sobrino in her last start and she is the half sister to Baldoria, who won the Gran Critérium in 2005

Recent winners of the Gran Critérium are: Matusalén (2011), Volcánico (2010), Adjuge (2009), As de Trébol (2008), Rituss (2007), What a Caper (2006) and Baldoria (2005)

Karluv Most won the GP Ciudad de Madrid

[After a vacation break, time to catch up with recent meetings]

Karluv Most (FR, 2006), bay colt, [Della Francesca-La Vlatava(Grand Lodge)], owned by Cuadra Cholaica, trained by J. L. Maroto and ridden by Charles Nora won last 24 June the GP Ciudad de Madrid (2,500 m, 3yo+, 40,600 euros for the winner), beating Entre Copas (Sakhee), with Plantagenet (Trade Fair) third and Aspasia de Mileto (Hurricane Run) fourth.

The race was commanded by Karluv Most from the gates, followed by Entre Copas, with a very slow pace. The first position was never threatened, but Plantagenet fought for second with Entre Copas, who held him off easily.

This is the 2nd win in this race for Karluv Most, winner also of the 2012 edition. The first two have been 1-2, 2-1 and 1-2 in the last three editions.

Here is the video: GP Ciudad de Madrid

In the rest of the meeting, the results were:

Bohemian  Rapsody (Dyhim Diamond) won the 1,200 m race for 2yo.

Dakside (Caradak) won the 1,400 m race for 3yo

Limeño (Egeo) won the 2,000 m race for 3yo

Rayo Rojo (Rakti) won the 1,600 m Handicap

Albuhera (SPA, 2010) (Devil Moon-Lili d'Aubois(Lycius) won the Premio Martorell (1,200 m, 2yo, 15,000 euros for the winner, main 2yo race of the season) and

Almazora (Azamour) won the 1,600 m race for fillies

GP Ciudad de Madrid, Sunday 24 June 2012

The highlight of the last Sunday meeting of the La Zarzuela spring season is the GP Ciudad de Madrid (2,500 m, 3yo+, weight for age, 40,600 euros for the winner)

The participants of this edition are:

Achtung (SPA, 2008), a bay colt [Sulamani-Aurea(Silvano)], owned by Cuadra Enalto, trained by Roberto López. will be ridden by Borja Fayos Winner of the Premio Villamejor (Spanish St. Leger)
 last year.

Arnuero (GB, 2008), bay colt [Sakhee-Penang Pearl(Bering)], owned by Cuadra Medreal, trained by M. Delcher S. Will be ridden by Oscar Ortiz de Urbina. He was second to Ayanz in the Memorial Duque de Toledo last year, and was 3rd and 2nd in his previous starts.

Domeside (GB, 2006), bay colt [Domedriver-Buck's Fizz(Kris)], owned by Cuadra Safsaf, trained by M. Delcher S., will be ridden by J. Grosjean. Winner of the 2009 Villapadierna (Spanish Derby), he won the Premio Corpa in his last start, beating Entre Copas, Karluv Most and Achtung.

Entre Copas (GB, 2004), ch. gelding [Sakhee-Priena(Priolo)], owned by Cuadra África, trained by J. M. Osorio, will be ridden by V. Janacek. Horse of the Year in Spain in 2011,  he won this race last year. Second to Domeside in the Premio Corpa

Karluv Most (FR, 2006), bay colt, [Della Francesca-La Vlatava(Grand Lodge)], owned by Cuadra Cholaica, trained by J. L. Maroto, will be ridden by Charles Nora. Winner of the 2010 edition, he won his last start, beating Arnuero

Plantagenet (SPA, 2007) [Trade Fair-Crafty Buzz(Crafty Prospector)], owned by Cuadra Whylar, trained by G Arizkorreta and ridden by Ioritz Mendizábal. Winner of the 2010 GP Villapadierna (Spanish Derby)

Señor Miranda (GB, 2007), bay colt [Fantastic Light-Ringing Hill(Carhmwood Forest)], owned by Cuadra Los Toneles, trained by F. Rodríguez

Aspasia de Mileto (GB, 2008), bay filly [Hurricane Run-Fabulous Speed(Silver Hawk)], owned and trained by J. M. Osorio, Duque de Alburquerque. Winner of the Valderas (1000 Guineas) last year, he was also third in the Derby.  Afterwards, she was transferred to trainer Carlos Laffon in Paris and he was 2nd in the Listed Prix Liancourt





Azafata (SPA, 2009) [Motivator-Anysheba(Alysheba)]. owned by Cuadra Chamartín, trained by J. López. She has won her last 2 starts.


Previous winners of the GP Ciudad de Madrid have been: Entre Copas (2011), Karluv Most (2010), Faramir (2009), Bannaby (2008), Premier Galop  (2007) and Baldoria (2006).

Pazifiksturm wins the GP Sa Majesté Le Roi Mohammed VI at Casablanca, Moroco

Pazifizsturm (GER. 2007) [Samum-La Parabol(Trempolino)], owned by Cuadra Martul, trained by Ana Imaz Ceca and ridden by J. Auge, won yesterday the GP Sa Majesté Le Roi Mohammed VI (2,400 m, 4yo+, approx. 89,000 euros total purse)  at the Casablanca racetrack by ona an three quarter lenghts from  Plantagenet (SPA, 2007) [Trade Fair-Crafty Buzz(Crafty Prospector)], owned by Cuadra Whylar, trained by G Arizkorreta and ridden by J. L. Martínez, who closed strongly to be second by a nose, with Last Crusade third and Mayar fourth.

Pazifiksturm won the Mijas Cup 2012 in his last start in Spain. He was previously winner of the Premio Villamejor (Spanish St. Leger) in 2012 and second to Bannaby in the 2010 Copa de Oro de San Sebastián.

Plantagenet is also a Spanish Classic winner, since he won the 2010 GP Villapadierna (Spanish Derby). He was fourth in the Memorial Duque de Alburquerque after winning in Dubai


The video of the race can be seen here: http://www.porunpeloturf.es/?p=2618

Abdel won the Memorial Duque de Alburquerque

The 2nd running of the GP Memorial Duque de Alburquerque (2,100 m, 4yo+, 17,400 euros for the winner), was won by Abdel (FR, 2008), [Dyhim Diamond-Leonor de Guzmán(Glauco)],  the bay colt owned and trained by J. M. Osorio, the current Duque de Alburquerque. Abdel was ridden by J. E. Jarcovsky, who had him in the second position after the frontrunner Nelson Groom (Charming Groom) for most of the race. Abdel found himself boxed in the home stretch when Plantagenet attacked Nelson Groom and Jarcovsky had a difficult time finding the way out, although, once in the clear, Abdel showed a remarkable turn of foot to surpasse Nelson Groom by a length, with Arnuero (Sakhee) third and Plantagenet fourth.

This is the 6th win in 10 starts for Abdel, who has performed at the highest level in 1,400 m (Antonio Blasco), 1,600 GP Hispanidad), 2,400 m (Copa de Oro) and now 2,100 m.

Abdel (Dyhim Diamond) and Jarcovksy, winners of the GP Memorial Duque de Alburquerque. Photo courtesy of http://turfarganda.blogspot.com

Here is the video (including parts of the 2011 edition): GP Memorial Duque de Alburquerque 2011

In the rest of the meeting:
Teobaldo (Singspiel) won the 2,100 m race for maiden 3yo, with Biladi (Authorized) second.

Cañadio (Dyhim Diamond) won the first part of the 1,600 m split handicap, with Viva A Franca (Storm Cat) 2nd

In the 1,600 m race for amateur jockes, the winner was Cielo Canarias (Exceed adn Excel), with Muñeca Brava (Noverre) second.

In the 2,100 m race for maiden 3yo fillies, the winner was the half sister to Faramir (GP Ciudad de Madrid), Sportside (Refuse to Bend), with Azafata (Motivator) 2nd. Here is the video: Premio Loterías y Apuestas del Estado

And in the 2nd half of the split handicap,. Dyhim Diamond made a treble as a sire with Diamante Blanco

Dyhim Diamond sired a total of 5 winners out of 11 races in the weekend

Memorial Duque de Alburquerque, Sunday 22 April 2012

The Sunday 22 meeting at the La Zarzuella racecourse of Madrid features the Memorial Duque de Alburquerque (2,100 m, 4yo+, 17,400 euros for the winner), in its second edition.

And there is a top level field, that includes no less than 4 Classic winners (Domeside, Karluv Most, Plantagenet, Achtung), 2 Mijas Cup winners (Nelson Groom and HOY Entre Copas), along with the versatile Abdel (2nd in the Copa de Oro and winner of the Hispanidad), Arnuero (the half brother to Harbinger, and 2nd in the Memorial Duque de Toledo in autumn), etc.


This is the field:

Abdel (FR, 2008), bay colt [Dyhim Diamond-Leonor de Guzmán(Glauco)], owned and trained by J. M. Osorio, Duke of Alburquerque and ridden by J. E. Jacoksky. 2nd in the Copa de Oro de San Sebastián (2,400 m, weight for age), he won the GP Hispanidad and the Antonio Blasco and was fourth in the Listed Prix Tantieme in his last start in 2011.

Achtung (SPA, 2008), bay colt [Sulamani-Aurea(Silvano)], owned by Cuadra Enalto, trained by R. López, will be ridden by Oscar Ortiz de Urbina. Winner of the Villamejor (Spanish St. Leger) in 2011.

Arnuero (GB, 2008), bay colt [Sakhee-Penang Pearl(Bering)], owned by Cuadra Medreal, trained by M, Delcher, will be ridden by J. Horcajada. The half brother to King George winner Harbinger was 2nd to Ayanz in his last start, the GP Memorial Duque de Toledo, in the autumn

Casar (IRE, 2008), chestnut colt [Hurricane Run-Thoroughly (Woodman)], owned by Cuadra Medreal, trained by M. Delcher, will be ridden by Borja Fayos. 2nd in the Villamejor

Domeside (GB, 2006), bay colt [Domedriver-Buck's Fizz(Kris)], owned by Cuadra Safsaf, trained by M. Delcher, will be ridden by J. Grosjean. Winner of the 2009 Villapadierna, and winner of the first edition of this race last year.

Entre Copas (GB, 2004), chestnut gelding [Sakhee-Priena(Priolo)], owned by Cuadra Äfrica, trained by J. M. Osorio, will be ridden by J. Crocquevieille.Reigning horse of the year 

Karluv Most (FR, 2006), bay colt, [Della Francesca-La Vlatava(Grand Lodge)], owned by Cuadra Cholaica, trained by J. L. Maroto, will be ridden by J. L. Borrego.

Nelson Groom (FR, 2006), gray colt [Charming Groom-Slot Machine(Highest Honor)], owned by Reza Pazzoki, trained by F. Rodríguez, will be ridden by M. Borrego. Won in his last start, Premio Día Mundial del Teatro

Plantagenet (SPA, 2007), chestnut colt [Trade Fair-Crafty Buzz(Crafty Prospector)], owned by Cuadra Whylar, trained by G. Arizkorreta, will be ridden by J. L. Martínez. Winner of the 2010 Villapadierna (Derby), he comes from Dubai, where he was the first Spanish bred to win

Risquillo (FR, 2006), bay colt [Ballingarry-Ringing Wood(Charmwood Forest)], owned by Cuadra El Risquillo, trained by A. Carrasco, will be ridden by F. Jiménez.

Señor Miranda (GB, 2007), bay colt [Fantastic Light-Ringing Hill (Charmwood Forest)]. owned by Cuadra Los Toneles, trained by F. Rodríguez, will be ridden by M. Gomes

Zona Cero (IRE, 2005), bay gelding [Noverre-Thoroughly(Woodman)], owned by Cuadra Popular, trained by G. Arizkorreta, will be ridden by V. Janacek.  Half to Casar and Midnight Beauty. (winner of the G3 Prix Condé in France)


The rest of the meeting includes:
A 2,100 m race for maiden 3yo (with 3 debutants)
A 1,600 m split handicap with two parts
A 1,600 m race for gentlemen/women riders
A 2,100 m race for maiden 3yo fillies (4 of them, debutants)

Plantagenet wins in Dubai

The 2010 Villapadierna winner, Plantagenet (SPA, 2007) [Trade Fair-Crafty Buzz(Crafty Prospector)], owned by Cuadra Whylar, trained by G Arizkorreta and ridden by Ioritz Mendizábal, won today the S.O.G. Finance Handicap, a 2000 m handicap in the all-weather track, with a purse of 25,000 USD. Carrying the top weight, Plantagenet travelled in the middle of the pack until the stretch in which he surpassed the pack first and then the front runner Ahlaain, who finished second.

Here is the race:  SOG Finance Handicap 2012

Ariete Arrollador 2nd and Plantagenet 6th in Meydan

Ariete Arrollador (GB, 2007) [Kingsalsa-Proud Dounna], owned by Cuadra Albero, trained by G. Arizkorreta and ridden by Mirco Demuro, was second in the Etisalat My Plan, a 1,400 m handicap in the Meydan all-weather track yesterday. He travelled in the middle of the field and he found a place along the rail in the home stretch. Although he was not asked for most of the race, when Demuro asked him to quicken, he did so, but not strongly enough to threaten the winner, Barbecue Eddie, ridden by Richard Hills.

In Spain, Ariete Arrollador won the Premio Cimera (Spanish 2,000 Guineas) at three and in 2011 he was second in the most important 1,600 m races for 3yo+ in the a Zarzuela racetrack, beating by Volcánico in the GP Claudio Carudel and by Abdel in the GP de la Hispanidad.

Here is the video: Etisalat My Plan

Meanwhile, Plantagenet was sixth in his race, a 2410 m Handicap, won by Naqshabban, with Dettori.
Here is the race: Elisalat My Data Plan. Plantagenet is the first Spanish bred to run in Dubai. He will be followed by the top 2yo of 2011 in Spain, Matusalen

Plantagenet and Ariete Arrollador to run in Meydan this Thursday

Plantagenet (SPA, 2007) is a chestnut colt, [Tradefair-Crafty Buzz(Crafty Prospector)] winner of the Premio Villapadierna (Spanish Derby) in 2010. This year, he was third in the GP de Madrid in his best performance. His last outing was in France, where he was unplaced. Plantagenet is owned by Cuadra Whylar and trained by G. Arizkorreta. He is entered in a 2410 m Handicap race.

Ariete Arrollador (GB, 2007), a bay colt, [Kingsalsa-Proud Douna] is also a Classic winner, since he won the GP Cimera (Spanish 2,000 Guineas) in 2010. He has run three times in Deauville, and he is undefeated in that all-weather track, winning the Listed Prix Luthier in his last outing. He is owned by Cuadra Albero and trained also by Guillermo Arizkorreta. He is entered in a 1,400 m Handicap race with a total purse of 110,000 USD (66,000 for the winner).

Ariete Arrollador, Matusalén, Plantagenet, As de Trébol to run in Meydan

The Spanish representation in the Dubai Carnival 2012 will include:

As de Trébol (USA, 2006) [Tapit-Adelphi(Danzig)], who already ran in Meydan in 2011, being third in the Business Banking Handicap and also third in the Gr. 3 Emirates Burj Nahar, is owned by Cuadra Chicago and trained by M. Delcher S.

Also trained by M. Delcher is Matusalén (SPA, 2009) [Caradak-Bixaare(Xaar)], the top 2yo in Spain, unbeaten in 4 starts, including the Gran Criterium. He is owned by Cuadra Aller and comes from the first crop of Caradak. He was entered in the 2,000 m Criterium at Saint Cloud, but did not finally run.


There will be two horses trained by Guillermo Arizkorreta in the Dubai season:

Ariete Arrollador (GB, 2007) [Kingsalsa-Proud Douna] won the Premio Cimera (2,000 Guineas) at three and recently won the Listed Prix Luthier at Deauville. He is owned by Cuadra Albero.

Plantagenet (SPA, 2007) [Trade Fair-Crafty Buzz(Crafty Prospector)] won the Villapadierna (Spanish Derby). He is owned by Cuadra Whylar.

Ayanz wins the Memorial Duque de Toledo

Ayanz (GB, 2008) [Tiger Hill-Got to go(Shareef Dancer)], trained by G. Arizkorreta and ridden by V. Janacek for Cuadra Quinto Real, won today the GP Memorial Duque de Toledo (2,400 m, 3yo+] at the La Zarzuela racetrack, beating Arnuero (GB, 2008) [Sakhee-Penang Pearl(Bering)] by a length, with Domeside (GB, 2006) [Domedriver-Buck's Fizz(Kris)] a head behind. Karluv Most, winner of the 2010 edition, was fourth.

The stable mate of Entre Copas, Porquenotecallas was the frontrunner, followed by Clunia, who replaced him in the far straight. In the home turn, Karluv Most, Señor Miranda and Entre Copas launched their attacks, but it was in the home straight when the first three in the wire came from behind.

Ayanz and Vaclav Janacek, winners of the Memorial Duque de Toledo 2011. Photo courtesy of turfarganda.blogspot.com


This is the fourth win in six starts for Ayanz, who won the Spanish Derby (Premio Villapadierna) in his previous start, back in june.

Here is the race: Memorial Duque de Toledo 2011

GP Memorial Duque de Toledo, Sunday 16th October

The Memorial Duque de Toledo ("el Memorial" for Spanish racing fans) is a 2,400 m race for 3 yo+, weight for age, run in the La Zarzuela racetrack and the most important race of the autumn in Spain.

Partants this year are:
Domeside (GB, 2006) [Domedriver-Buck's Fizz], owned by Cuadra Safsaf, trained by M Delcher S, will be ridden by J. Grosjean. He won the Memorial Duque de Alburquerque last spring.

Entre Copas (G, 2004) [Sakhee-Priena(Priolo)], owned by Cuadra África, trained my J. M. Osorio, will be ridden by J. Crocquevieille. Unbeaten in 5 starts this year, he has won the Mijas Cup, the GP Ciudad de Madrid, the Premio Corpa and the GP de San Sebastián.

Karluv Most (FR, 2006) [Della Francesca-La Vlatava], owned by Cuadra Cholaica, trained by J. L. Maroto, will be ridden by Oscar Ortiz de Urbina. He won this race last year.

Plantagenet (SPA, 2007) [Trade Fair-Crafty Buzz], owned by Cuadra Whylar, trained by G. Arizkorreta, will be ridden by J. L. Borrego.

Porquenotecallas (IRE, 2006) [Fantastic Light-Ganga], owned by Cuadra África, trained by J. M. Osorio, will be ridden by J. E. Jarcovsky.

Señor Miranda (GB, 2007) [Fantastic Light-Ringing Hill], owned by Cuadra Los Toneles, trained by F. Rodríguez, will be ridden by S. Ruis.

Arnuero (GB, 2008) [Sakhee-Penang Pearl], owned by Cuadra Medreal, trained by M. Delcher S, will be ridden by Jorge Horcajada. Winner of the prep race. Three wins in five starts.

Arnuero (left, jockey with orange sleeves) surpassing Plantagenet in the trial race, Premio Cadena Ser. Photo courtesy of turfarganda.blogspot.com


Ayanz (GB, 2008) [Tiger Hill-Got to Go], owned by Cuadra Quinto Real, trained by G. Arizkorreta, will be ridden by V. Janacek. Winner of the Villapadierna (Spanish Derby), has not run since then.

Clunia (IRE, 2008) [Silent Times-Doohulla], owned by Cuadra Brazacorta, trained by G. Villarta, will be ridden by J. L. Martínez. Winner of the Beamonte

The winner of the last edition was Karluv Most, who will try to repeat in 2011. Here is the video: Memorial Duque de Toledo 2010


UPDATE: Results of the race

Irish Cliff (IRE) wins the Criterium de Potrancas, Arnuero wins the prep race for the Memorial

Irish Cliff (IRE, 2009), the bay filly property of Cuadra Chicago, trained by M. Delcher S. and ridden by Jorge Horcajada, won the Criterium de Potrancas (1,400 m, 2yo fillies) in the La Zarzuela racecourse, beating Laura Moon (FR, 2009) [Russian Blue-Partageuse(Green Tune)], by half a length after a long fight in the stretch, leaving far behind the third, Galaxy (SPA, 2009) [Verglas-Yafoul(Torrential)] third, with She Rules (FR, 2009) [Aussie Rules-Barannia(Barathea)] fourth.

Irish Cliff (IRE) [Marju-Miss Corinne] (number 3) winning the Criterium de Potrancas 2011. Photo courtesy of turfarganda.blogspot.com



This is the second win in three startsd for Irish Cliff.
Here is the race: Criterium de Potrancas

In the second race of the meeting, the winner was Arnuero (GB, 2008) [Sakhee-Penang Pearl(Bering)], owned by Cuadra Medreal, trained by M. Delcher S. and ridden by Jorge Horcajada, with Plantagenet (SPA, 2007) [Trade Fair-Crafty Buzz(Crafty Prospector)] second and Eltso (SPA, 2008) [Dyhim Diamond-Katherine(Don Roberto)] third. This is the third win for Arnuero (half brother to Harbinger) in five starts.

Here is the race: Premio Cadena Serz.

Also this Sunday, Eltso, Arnuero, Señor Miranda, Plantagenet

Apart from the Criterium de Potrancas, the meeting of this Sunday includes the Premio Cadena Ser, a 2,200 m race for 3yo+, a prep race for the Memorial Duque de Toledo.

The nine partants include the 4yo+ Calamargo (IRE, 2007) [Arakan-Rain of Flanders(Ranbow Quest)], the twice Classic second Señor Miranda (GB, 2007) [Fantastc Light-Ringing Hill(Charnwood Forest)], Loch Etive (GB, 2006)[Rock of Gibraltar-Amazing Krisjen(Kris S)],the 2010 Derby winner Plantagenet (SPA, 2007) [Trade Fair-Crafty Buzz(Crafty Prospector)], Porquenotecallas (IRE, 2006) [Fantastic Light-Ganga(Generous)] and the 3 yos Eltso (SPA, 2008) [Dyhim Diamond-Katherine(Don Roberto)], who was second in the GP Nacional and in the Spanish Derby won by Ayanz, Arnuero (GB, 2008) [Sakhee-Penang Pearl(Bering)] for his new stable, Diamant du Soleil (FR, 2008) [Dyhim Diamond-Solina(Acatenango)] and Rio Duerna (SPA, 2008) [Okawango-Berona(Policy Matter)]

Arnuero (gray and yellow) and Diamant du Soleil, last spring in Madrid. Photo courtesy of Turfarganda.blogspot.com

Jo All the Way wins the Copa de Oro Donostia (San Sebastián) 2011

Jo All the Way, (Gold away-Secret Question) the French raider owned by Gerard Agustin Normand, ridden by P Sogorb, and trained by Eli Lellouche for won the Copa de Oro Donostia 2011, by three lengths, with Abdel (SPA, 2008) [Dyhim Diamond-Leonor de Guzmán(Glauco)] second and Festeiro (SPA, 2008) [Fol Parade-New Vert(Vert Amande)] a close third. Young Tiger (FR, 2001) was fourth.

The race was led by Pazifiksturm (GER, 2007) (Samum), second in the 2010 edition, with Domeside (GB, 2006) (Domedriver) following him and Señor Miranda (GB, 2007) (Fantastic Light) third. In the far straight, Pazifiksturm was led to the outer part of the track (following the same strategy as last year, like his stable mate Dunnboinee, who was in the rear part of the field. However, this time, Domeside took the lead and, with a strong pace, put some distance and Pazifiksturm couldn't regain his position. Domeside (for blinkers for the first time) entered the home stretch first, but Abdel and (along the rail) Jo All the Way surpassed him, with Young Tiger behind them. Jo All the Way was clearly the best, and Abdel seemed a clear second until Festeiro, although disturbed by Young Tiger in his late charge, closed strongly and almost surpassed Abdel in the finish line.

Jo All the Way is three times Listed placed in France and had an official French rating of 47 before the race.

Both Abdel and Festeiro come from families related to the Copa de Oro, since the dam of Abdel is half sister to Ceremonioso (2nd in the 1996 edition) and Newango, half brother to Festeiro was second in 2007 and third in 2008.

Here is the race: Copa de Oro Donostia 2011

Abdel and Señor Miranda won the prep races for the Copa de Oro

Abdel (SPA, 2008) [Dyhim Diamond-Leonor de Guzmán], owned, bred and trained by J. M. Osorio, won the Premio Diputación de Guipúzcoa, the prep race for 3 yo for the Copa de Oro de San Sebastián, beating Cape Point and Dunboinne, with some controversy because Abdel invaded the line of Dunboinnee in the stretch.
Here is the race: Premio Diputación de Guipuzcoa 2011

Meanwhile, Señor Miranda (GB, 2007) won the equivalent race for 4yo+, beating Karluv Most and Plantagenet, among others.

Entre Copas (GB) wins the Gran Premio de Madrid 2011

Entre Copas, (GB, 2004), [Sakhee-Priena(Priolo)], the chestnut gelding owned by Cuadra África, won today the Gran Premio Ciudad de Madrid (2,500 m, 3yo+, weight for age) in the La Zarzuela turf track, under jockey Jeremy Crocquevieille, for trainer J. M. Osorio. He beat Karluv Most (FR, 2006) [Della Francesca-La Vlatava] jockey Ortiz de Urbina for Cuadra Cholaica and trainer J. L. Maroto by a head, with Plantagenet third and Señor Miranda fourth. Here is the photo finish

Señor Miranda was the first until the home stretch, in which Entre Copas lanuched his attack, to be later followed by Karluv Most who closed strongly for second by a head. Domeside, one of the favourites, was last for most of the race and although he seemed comfortable at the beginning of the stretch, he didn't have much strength to attack, finishing sixth.

This is the 4th consecutive win for Entre Copas, winner of the Mijas Cup 2011 and the first horse ever to win both these two races (the ones with the biggest purse in Spain). He is also, with 7 years, the oldest winner of the GP de Madrid. He was 3rd in 2009 and 2nd (to Karluv Most) in the 2010 edition.

Here is the race: Gran Premio Ciudad de Madrid, 2011

And an extended video (15 min): GP Ciudad de Madrid 2011

Gran Premio Ciudad de Madrid this Sunday

The GP Ciudad de Madrid is a 2,500 m race for 3yo+, weight for age, with a purse of 40,000 euros for the winner, run in the La Zarzuela racetrack (turf) in Madrid. Traditionally, it was the first top-level confrontation of 3 yo and 4 yo+ top stayers, but 3 y/os are increasingly skipping this race and this year there are no 3 y/o partants.

The seven partants are:

Calamargo (IRE, 2007) [Arakan-Rain of Flanders(Rainbow Quest)] is a bay colt owned by Cuadra Jimena and trained by A. F. Sánchez. He will be ridden by Borja Fayos. He has won his last three starts, in handicap races, meaning he is showing great proggress.

Domeside (GB, 2006) [Domedriver-Buck's Fizz] is a bay colt owned by Cuadra SafSaf and trained by M. Delcher S. He will be ridden by J. Grosjean. Winner of the Villapadierna (Derby) in 2009, he was injured and returned to action this last winter in the Dos Hermanas racetrack, and has won his last two starts in Madrid, including his win in the inaugural running of the Gran Premio Duque de Alburquerque beating a good number of his rivals in the GP de Madrid.


Entre Copas, [Sakhee-Priena(Priolo)] is a chestnut gelding, owned by Cuadra África and trained by J. M. Osorio. He will be ridden by J. Crocquevieille. His last start was his win in the Premio Corpa, beating Karluz Most and making it three consecutive winsPremio E-quiniela, Mijas Cup and Premio Corpa. If he wins, it would be the first in winning the double Mijas Cup-GP de Madrid.

Karluv Most (FR, 2006) [Della Francesca-La Vltava] is a bay colt owned by Cuadra Cholaica and trained by J. L. Maroto. He will be ridden by Oscar Ortiz de Urbina He won the Premio Villamejor (Spanish St. Leger) at 3 and won the last edition of this GP Ciudad de Madrid and also the Memorial Duque de Toledo (2,400 m, 3yo+, weight for age) last year. He was second to Entre Copas in his last start, in the Premio Corpa

Magician's Cape (IRE, 2007) [Montjeu-Seven Magiciens] is a bay colt owned by Daniel Roset, trained by T. Callejo and will be ridden by J. C. Cerqueira. He has been second to Calamargo in his last two starts

Plantagenet (SPA, 2007) [Trade Fair-Crafty Buzz] is a chestnut colt owned by Cuadra Plantagenet, trained by G. Arizkorreta and will be ridden J. L. Borrego. Was one of the highest rated 3 y/os of 2010 along with Pazifiksturm, because he won the GP Nacional and the Villapadierna (Derby). However, he has not lived up to his promise for the moment. He was second to Nelson Groom in his last start, showing some signs of being in good shape.

Señor Miranda (GB, 2007) [Fantastic Light-Ringing Hill] is a bay colt owned by Cuadra Los Toneles, trained by F. Rodríguez and will be ridden by Vaclav Janacek. He has been placed in many of the biggest races in Spain (2nd in the Villapadierna and in the Villamejor, 3rd in the Copa de Oro de San Sebastián, 3rd in the Memorial Duque de Toledo). Third in his last start, to Nelson Groom and Plantagenet.

Nelson Groom (FR) wins again

Nelson Groom (FR, 2006) [Charming Groom-Slot Machine(Highest Honor)], winner of the 2010 Mijas Cup, achieved his first win since that race when he went wire to wire in the Premio Guardia Civil under jockey Julien Grosjean for trainer F. Rodriguez and owner Reza Pazooki, last Sunday in the La Zarzuela racetrack. The field for this 2,200 race for 4 yo+ included three classic winners of 2010 in Spain: Plantagenet (SPA, 2007) [Trade Fair-Crafty Buzz(Crafty Prospector)], winner of the Villapadierna (Derby), Pazifiksturm (GER, 2007) [Samum-La Parabol(Trempolino)], winner of the Villamejor (St. Leger) and Narya (IRE, 2007), winner of the Beamonte (Oaks), also starring Señor Miranda (GB, 2007) [Fantastic Light-Ringing Hill(Charmwood Forest)] (second both in the Villapadierna and the Villamejor), Casaca (GB, 2006) [Medicean-Priena(Priolo)], half sister to Entre Copas and 2nd in the Valderas(1,000 guineas) and Beamonte(Oaks) in 2009. Risquillo (Ballingarry), Saruman (Arch) and Tasha Linda (Where or When) completed the field.

Nelson Groom went comfortably in front of the field, followed by Señor Miranda and didn't face great opposition in the stretch, with Plantagenet closing along the rail for second and Señor Miranda third and Risquillo fourth.

Here is the race: Premio Guardia Civil