Matusalén won the GP Claudio Carudel

Matusalen (SPA, 2009), bay colt [Caradak-Bixaare(Xaar)], owned by Cuadra Miranda, trained by M. Delcher S and ridden by Charles Nora, won last Sunday the GP Claudio Carudel (1,600m, 3yo+, 25,500 euros for the winner) at the La Zarzuela racetrack of Madrid, beating Mil Azul (SPA, 2008), bay colt [Russian Blue-Cuittled(Charismatic)], owned by Yeguada Urdiñ-Oriya, trained by J. L. de Salas and ridden by J. L. Borrego, with Weststow (GB, 2008), ch. colt [Medicean-Summer Sunset(Grand Lodge)], owned by Cuadra Viguria, trained by J. M. Osorio in third place and Bellaside fourth.
The rest of the participants were Ariete Arrollador, Jokan, Volcánico, Tirion, Shumookh and Risby

The pace was very fast, with Shumookh and Risby putting some distance between them and the rest of the field. In the straight, Mil Azul was the first to attack, with Bellaside and Weststow, but Matusalén closed very strongly to win by a length.

Matusalén was the unbeaten champion 2 yo in Spain and then travelled to Dubai, where he encountered some problems, including a respiratory illness. Back in Spain he had two disappointing performances in the Cimera and GP Nacional.

Here is the video, with footage also of the 2011 edition : GP Claudio Carudel 2012


In the rest of the meeting:

Collio Side (Caradak) won the 1,200 m race for 2yos, with Zahora and Yakarak 2nd and 3rd, getting a 1-2-3 for Caradak

The 1,200 m race for 3yo+ Spanish breds was won by Azabache (Iceman), with Tagomago (Dyhim Diamond) second

Bipolar (Denver County) won the first part of the split handicap (1,800 m) with Literario (Devil Moon) 2nd

Bouquetot Belle (Graeme Hall) won the 2nd part, with Draco (Baptize) 2nd.

Patricio (Sulamani) won the 1,600 m handicap, with Sharp Eye (Okawango) 2nd.

Other races of the Sunday meeting

Besides the Premio Beamonte, the Sunday meeting at La Zarzuela, Madrid, includes two mile races, one for 4yo+ and for 3yo, preps for the GP Claudio Carudel


The race for elder horses, Premio Marca (1,600 m, 9,000 euros for the winner), has the following participants:

Ariete Arrollador (GB, 2007), bay colt [Kingsalsa-Proud Douna(Kaldoun)], owned by Cuadra Albero, trained by G. Arizkorreta. Ariete reappears in Spain after his good performances in Dubai (twice second)
As de Trébol (USA, 2006), gray colt [Tapit-Adelphi(Danzig)], owned by Cuadra Chicago, trained by M. Delcher, will be ridden by Borja Fayos.The winner of the Gran Criterium in 2008, also run this year in Dubai.

Volcánico (IRE, 2008), bay colt [Refuse to Bend-Zayana(Darshaan)], owned by Cuadra Los Toneles, trained by F. Rodríguez, Winner of the GP Claudio Carudel 2011

Bellaside (IRE, 2007), bay filly [Vie dei Colori-Brockton Saga(Perugino)], owned by Cuadra Grupo Bolaños, trained by E. León. Will be ridden by A. Gómez. Reappears.

Risquillo (FR, 2006), bay colt [Ballingarry-Alexia Fedorovna(Steinlen)], owned by Cuadra El Risquillo, trained by A. Carrasco.

Weststow (GB, 2008), ch. colt [Medicean-Summer Sunset(Grand Lodge)], owned by Cuadra iguria, trained by J. M. Osorio. Will be ridden by J. Crocquevieille

In the 3yo race, Premio Folie (1,600 m, 9,000 euros for the winner) the field is:

Azabache (SPA, 2009) [Iceman-Tiviski(Desert Style)], owned by Cuadra Los Toneles, trained by F. Rodríguez. Will be ridden by O. Ortiz de Urbina.

Stratvs Canarias (IRE, 2009), bay colt [Soviet Star-Hekayaat(Sinndar)], owned by Cuadra Grupo Bolaños Gran Canaria, trained by E. León. Will be ridden by J. Crocquevieille. The winner of the Handicap Opcional 2012 was 7th in the Cimera (2,000 Guineas)

Valiant Blue (IRE, 2009), bay colt [Moss Vale-Tiltili(Spectrum)], owned by Cuadra Agrado, trained by Teo Callejo, ridden by B, Fayos.

Celtic Rock (GB, 2009), ch. colt [Rock of Gibraltar-Luna Celtica(Celtic Swing)], owned by Cuadra Habit, trained by J. C. Fernández, will be ridden by J. L. Martínez


Alduides (IRE, 2009), ch. colt [Rock of Gibraltar-Misdirect], owned by Cuadra Quinto Real, trained by G. Arizkorreta, will be ridden by V. Janacek. Winner of his last start, beating Celtic Rock

Dakside (SPA, 2009), bay filly [Caradak-La Lola(Zafonic)], owned by Cuadra Safsaf, trained by F. Rodríguez. Will be ridden by J. Grosjean.

Extrañeza (SPA, 2009), bay filly [Caradak-Watchkeeper(Rudimentary)], owned by MG Racing, trained by M. J. Pérez. Will be ridden by J. Horcajada

There is also a 1,500 m split handicap and a 1,000 m race for debutant 2yos

Galipoli wins the Premio Velayos

Galipoli (FR, 2009), a bay colt [Sulamani-Weet Willa(Assert)], won today the Premio Velayos, with jockey Vaclav Janacek, for trainer Teo Callejo and owners Cuadra San Rafael. He beat Fortun (IRE, 2009), a bay colt [Bachelor Duke-Duckmore Bay(Titus Livius)], owned by Cuadra La Toledana, trained by J. L. Maroto by a length, with Cardolan (IRE, 2009), b. c. [Azamour-Plutonia(Sadler's Wells)] third some 5 lengths behind.

The Premio Velayos (2,200 m, 3yo, 15,000 euros for the winner) is a traditional prep race for the Premio Villapadierna (Spanish Derby).

Galipoli (Sulamani) beats Fortun in the Premio Velayos. Photo courtesy of http://turfarganda.blogspot.com

Here is the video: Premio Velayos 2012  and here is a 11 min video:: Premio Velayos 2012

Thsi is the third win in as many starts for Galipoli, half brother to the Group 3 winners Holberg and Undermine. His dam, Sweet Willa is own sister to the G1W Willa on the Move (Ashland Stakes, 2nd Spinster Stakes, Gazelle Stakes).

The other highlight of the meeting was the 3rd race, Premio La Razón - Premio Andrés Covarrubias , a 1,400 m race for 4yo, won by Mil Azul (SPA, 2008), a bay colt [Russian Blue-Cuittled(Charismatic)] , owned by Cuadra Urdiñ-Oriya, trained by J. L. Salas and ridden by J. L. Borrego, who beat As de Trébol (Tapit) and Volcánico (Refuse to Bend), with S Grillo fourth. Here is the video: Premio La Razón - Andrés Covarrubias

In the first race (1,400 m, 4yo+, split handicap,  2nd part), the winner was Vega de Castilla (Golan), wih Pedreña (Dyhim Diamond) second

The 2nd race, Premio Cruzcampo (1,600 m, amateur jockeys) was won by Libertino (Daliapour), with Sandoval (Ishiguru) 2nd.

In the first part of the 1,400 m split handicap, the winner was Liniberto (Bertolini), with As de Thomas (Bahri) 2nd.

In the last race, a 2,400 m race for 4yo+, the winner was Meneldor (Barathea), with Porquenotecallas (Fantastic Light) second

Abdel and Volcánico to run in the Listed Prix Tantieme this Thursday 17th

Abdel (FR, 2008) [Dyhim Diamond-Leonor de Guzmán(Glauco)] a bay colt, bred, owned and trained by J.M.Osorio (Duque de Alburquerque) and Volcánico (IRE, 2008) [Refuse to Bend-Zayana(Darshaan)], a bay colt owned by Cuadra Los Toneles and trained by Francisco Rodríguez, are entered in the Prix Tantieme (Listed race 1,600 m, 3yo+, St. Cloud racecourse - France).

Abdel has won the most important mile race for 3yo+ in the Autumn season in Madrid, the P Hispanidad and also the Premio Antonio Blasco, after competing at a high level in 2,400 m races (second in the Copa de Oro de San Sebastián).

Abdel (Dyhim Diamond), winner of the GP Hispanidad. Photo courtesy of turfarganda.blogspot.com"


Volcánico won the Gran Premio Claudio Carudel last spring and also the Premio Gobierno Vasco (1,600 m, 3yo, weight for age, San Sebastián). He was the best 2yo of 2010 and has never run above 1,600 m.

Volcánico (Refuse to Bend), winner of the GP Claudio Carudel and the GP Gobierno Vasco. Photo courtesy of turfarganda.blogspot.com"

Gran Critérium, 1,600 m, 2 yo, Sunday 23th in Madrid

One of the highlights of the autumn season in Madrid (La Zarzuela) is the Gran Criterium, a 1,600 m race for 2 yo, the most important race for two year olds, that will be run this next Sunday. The 2011 edition has the added interest of the presence of one of the leading jockeys in England, Ryan Moore, who will ride Plenipotenciario.

The partants this year, next Sunday are all colts:

Celtic Rock (GB, 2009) [Rock of Gibraltar-Luna Celtica], owned by Cuadra Habit, trained by J. C. Fernández, will be ridden by J. Crocquevieille. Second to Albret in the Criterium Internacional in San Sebastián.

Gran Chipi (FR, 2009) [Green Tune-Cerita], owned by Cuadra Popular, trained by G. Arizkorreta, will be ridden by J. L. Borrego. Gran Chipi is half sister to Abril (Anabaa), a very good filly (Dual Classic placed and winner of the Premio Kutxa)

Matusalen (SPA, 2009) [Caradak-Bixaare], owned by Cuadra Aller, trained by M. Delcher S., will be ridden by J. Horcajada. Unbeaten in three starts, including the Criterium Nacional in San Sebastián and the Premio Dehesa de Milagro, beating the then Listed placed Monte Napoleone

Nuredyn (SPA, 2009) [Dyhim Diamond-Nurenieva], owned by Cuadra Zurraquín, trained by M. Hernández, will be ridden by Oscar Ortiz de Urbina. He won the Copa de Criadores in his last start.

Otro Gintonic (GB, 2009) [Trade Fair-Nuit Sans Fin], owned by Cuadra Factor Sorpresa, trained by G. Arizkorreta, will be ridden by V. Janacek.

Plenipotenciario (IRE, 2009) [Caradak-Poliaurea], owned by Cuadra Ussía-Hinojosa, trained by J L. de Salas, will be ridden by Ryan Moore. Winner of his only start: video beating Saphirside and Nuredyn.

Saphirside (IRE, 2009) [Elusive City-Silirisa], owned by Cuadra Safsaf, trained by M. Delcher S, will be ridden by J. Grosjean. Beaten by Plenipotenciario, he won his next start.

Last winners of the Gran Critérium have been: Volcánico (2010), Adjuge (2009), As de Trébol (in 2008), Rituss (2007), What a Caper (2006) and Baldoria (2005).

Abdel wins the GP de la Hispanidad

Abdel (FR, 2008) [Dyhim Diamond-Leonor de Guzmán(Glauco)], bred, owned and trained by J.M. Osorio (Duque de Alburquerque), won last Sunday the GP de la Hispanidad, a 1,600 m race for 3yo+, weight for age, and one of the highlights of the Madrid Autumn season. He was ridden by Jeremy Crocquevieille. Abdel went second behind Tirión for most of the race, and he won easily by two and a half lengths. Ariete Arrollador (GB, 2007) [Kingsalsa-Proud Douna(Kaldoun)] was second, with Bellaside third and Weststow fourth.

Abdel and Jeremy Crocquevieille, winner of the GP Hispanidad 2011. Photo courtesy of turfarganda.blogspot.com

This is the fourth win in seven starts for Abdel, who was second last time out in the GP Copa de Oro de San Sebastián (2,400 m) in the summer and third in the GP Nacional (2,200) in the spring. This is also the biggest win for stallion Dyhim Diamond since the wins of the French bred Bannaby.

Here is the video: GP Hispanidad 2011

Dyhim Diamond scored also in the Copa de Criadores for Spanish bred colts, when Nuredyn (FR-asim., 2009) [Dyhim Diamond-Nurenieva(Enrique)] beat Dakside (Caradak) by three quarters of a length. Nuredyn is owned and was bred by Cuadra Zurraquín, his trainer is Mariano Hernández and was ridden by J. Crocquevieille (leader of the jockey standings, who won three times this Sunday). Nuredyn's dam, Nurenieva won the Poule de Potrancas - 1000 Guineas, was fourth in the Beamonte (Oaks), second in the Memorial Duque de Toledo and in the Premio Kutxa and third in the Villamejor (St. Leger). Here is the race: Copa de Criadores (potros) 2011

The equivalent for fillies was won byVraivita (SPA, 2009) [Fol Parade-Vraivert(Vert Amande)], owned by Cuadra Luxemburgo, trained by Roberto López and ridden by Oscar Ortiz de Urbina, with Castellana (SPA, 2009) [Yorik-Fellinia(War Chant)] second.

Here is the video: Copa de Criadores (potrancas) 2011

GP de la Hispanidad this Sunday

One of the highlights of the Madrid autumn season is this Sunday's GP de la Hispanidad, a 1,600 m race for 3yo+, weight for age.

The partants this year are:
Ariete Arrollador (GB, 2007), a bay colt. [Kongsalsa-Proud Douna], owned by Cuadra Albero, trained by G. Arizkorreta, will be ridden by J. L. Borrego. Winner of the Cimera (2000 Guineas) last year.

Volapie (SPA, 2007), bay gelding [Multazem-Bassaver], owned by Cuadra Romana Alta, trained by M. J. Pérez, will be ridden by R. H. Huayas.

Abdel (SPA, 2008), a bay colt [Dyhim Diamond-Leonor de Guzmán], owned and trained by J. M. Osorio, Duque de Alburquerque, will be ridden by J. Crocquevieille. Has been running in 2200+ races, including his second place in the Copa de Oro de San Sebastián, now goes to the mile.

Bellaside (IRE, 2007), a bay filly [La Vie dei Colori-Brockton Saga], owned by Grupo Bolaños-Gran Canaria, E. León, will be ridden by J. L. Martínez. She was second to Volcánico in the Gobierno Vasco and then he won the Listed Premio Pietro Bessero in Milan. Was second in the 2010 edition.

Hands Up (FR, 2008), a bay colt [Panis-Bali Bloom], owned by Cuadra Nostrum, trained by J. L. Maroto, will be ridden by Oscar Ortiz de Urbina.

Mil Azul (SPA, 2008) a bay colt [Russian Blue-Cuittled], owned by Yeguada Ordiñ-Oriya, trained by J. L. Salas, will be ridden by J. C. Cerqueira.

Tirión (USA, 2008), a bay colt [Royal Academy-Domenica's Dream], owned by Cuadra Chicago, trained by M. Delcher S, will be ridden by Jorge Horcajada.

Volcánico (IRE, 2008), a bay colt [Refuse to Bend-Zayana], owned by Cuadra Los Toneles, trained by F. Rodríguez, will be ridden by J. Grosjean. Champion 2yo colt in 2010, he has won the GP Claudio Carudel in the spring and the Gobierno Vasco in the summer.

Weststow (GB, 2008), a bay colt, [Medicean-Summer Sunset], owned by Cuadra Viguria, trained by J. M. Osorio, will be ridden by V. Janacek.

Volcánico winning the GP Claudio Carudel. Photo courtesy of Turfarganda.blogspot.com

The Gran Premio de la Hispanidad is the most important race over a mile in the Autumn season of Madrid. The last winners were Silverside (2010 and 2009), Shumookh (2008), Solita (2007), Trip to the Moon (2006) and Young Tiger (2005).

In 1993 and 1994, the race was won by Partipral (later Group 1 winner in Hong Kong). And the 1988 edition was won by Isabena, the grand dam of Entre Copas, Casaca and Vagabond Shoes

Volcánico (IRE) wins the Gobierno Vasco

Volcánico (IRE, 2008) [Refuse to Bend-Zayana], owned by Cuadra Los Toneles, trained by Francisco Rodríguez, ridden by Julien Grosjean won by two and a half lengths the Premio Gobierno Vasco, one of the most important mile races in the Spanish calendar, beating Bellaside (IRE, 2007) [La Vie dei Colori-Brockton Saga], property of Grupo Bolaños Gran Canaria, trained by Enrique León and ridden by J L. Martínez, with As de Trébol (USA, 2006) [Tapit-Adelphi(Danzig)], owned by Cuadra Chicago, trained by M. Delcher S, with jockey Borja Fayos third and Shumookh (IRE, 2003) [Mujahid-Midway Lady] Cuadra Los Aspirantes-Dos Tumbos, trained by T. Callejo, with J. C. Cerqueira, fourth. As de Trébol led with a fast pace, with Shumookh some 3-4 lengths behind, until the home stretch. Volcánico, who was third for most of the race, catched the two frontrunners and held off easily the final charge of Bellaside.

This is a 13-minute video of the race: Premio Gobierno Vasco 2011, Lasarte racetrack. Volcánico adds this race to his impressive curriculum, winner of the Gran Criterium at 2 and winner of the Torre Arias, the GP Claudio Carudel and the Gobierno Vasco at three. He has never run above 1,600 m. The double Carudel-Gobierno Vasco represents two of the three most prestigious 1,600 m races for 3y/o+, the third being the GP Hispanidad, to be held in Madrid in October. This is the second Gobierno Vasco for jockey Julien Grosjean, winner in 2009 with Aranel.

Mil Azul (SPA) and As de Trébol (USA) win the preps for the Gobierno Vasco

Mil Azul (SPA, 2008) [Russian Blue-Cuittled(Charismatic)], the bay colt owned by Yeguada Urdiñ-Oriya, trained by J. L. Salas and ridden by J. L. Borrego, won this Sunday the Premio Real Sociedad de Fútbol (1,400 m, 3 yo) in the Lasarte racecourse in San Sebastián, beating the favourites Volcánico (IRE, 2008) and Don Fernando Hab, with La Llanura fourth.

Here is the race: Premio Real Sociedad de Fútbol

In the other prep race for the Premio Gobierno Vasco, the Premio Coca-Cola (1,400 m, 4yo+) , the winner was the globetrotter As de Trébol (USA, 2006) [Tapit-Adelphi(Danzig)], ridden by Borja Fayos for Cuadra Chicago and trainer M. Delcher S, with Shumookh second and Salpado third.

Some photos of this meeting: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kAdXdvKBR_E

Here is the race: Premio Coca-Cola

Volcánico, Don Fernando Hab, Shumookh, As de Trébol

Two races of this Sunday's meeting in San Sebastián are prep races for the Premio Gobierno Vasco (the most important mile race of the season, for 3 yo+, to be held in August 21th). In first one of these two races (Premio Real Sociedad de Fútbol), over 1,400 m, Volcánico (IRE, 2008) [Refuse to Bend-Zayana)], recent winner of the GP Claudio Carudel in Madrid, will face Don Fernando Hab (SPA,2008) [Intikhab-Flying Fulmar(Bahamian Bounty)] who beat him in their only duel so far and who comes from three wins in a row out of four starts. Volcánico will be ridden by Julien Grosjean for trainer Francisco Rodríguez and owner Cuadra Los Toneles, and J. E. Jarkovswy will ride Don Fernando Hab for Cuadra Vadillo and trainer A. Carrasco. Mil Azul (SPA, 2008) [Russian Blue-Cuittled(Charismatic)], El Incendio (IRE, 2008) [Clodovil-Duckmore Bay(Titus Livius)] and La Llanura (CAN, 2008) [El Prado-Herzblatt(Cozzene)] (the only filly), complete the total 5 partants.

The Premio Cocacola is que equivalent race for 4yo+ and has Shumookh (IRE, 2003) [Mujahid-Midway Lady(Alleged)] and As de Trébol (USA, 2006) as favourites. Shumookh won the Premio Gobierno Vasco last year, holding off the attack by Silverside and will try to repeat this year, beginning with this prep race. Cerqueira, as usual, will ride Shumookh, who may reach 200,000 euros in earnings in this race. Los Aspirantes are their owners and T. Callejo is his trainer. As de Trébol will be ridden by B. Fayos for Cuadra Chicago and M. Delcher S. Lince (GB, 2006, Singspiel), Makaamen (GB, 2006, Selkirk), Salpado (FR, 2006), Washita (SPA, 2007, British Open) and Zacarías (FR, 2005, Slickly) complete the field.

Volcánico (IRE) wins the Gran Premio Claudio Carudel

Volcánico (IRE, 2008), [Refuse to Bend-Zayana(Darshaan)], the bay colt owned by Cuadra Los Toneles and trained by Francisco Rodríguez, won today the GP Claudio Carudel, the most important weight-for-age 1,600 m race in the spring season of the La Zarzuela racetrack. Volcánico was ridden by R.C. Montenegro and beat Ariete Arrollador (GB, 2007) by one and 3/4 lengths, with Shumookh (GB, 2003) third and the favourite Silverside fourth.

Shumookh was the frontrunner, and this time, Volcánico went closer to the lead than usual, 2nd for most of the race, until he launched his attack in the stretch to surpass Shumookh, with Ariete Arrollador closing strongly for second.

Volcánico (IRE, 2008) [Refuse to Bend-Zayana] (number 12) beating Shumookh, Ariete Arrollador and Silverside to win the Premio Claudio Carudel. Photo courtesy of turfarganda.blogspot.com


This is the fourth win in ten starts for Volcánico (the only 3 y/o of the race), who has also 5 placings and totals 76,200 euros in prize money, having claimed the Gran Criterium at two and this GP Claudio Carudel as his two main wins. The dam of Volcánico, Zayana, by Darshaan, won 3 times in France and comes from the female line of Petite Etoile. A half brother to Volcánico, by Tiger Hill, was not sold in the Orby Million Sale of yearlings in 2010.

Here is the race: Gran Premio Claudio Carudel 2011

Gran Premio Claudio Carudel this Sunday

Established only 5 years ago, the GP Claudio Carudel is a 1,600 m race for 3yo+, held in the La Zarzuela racecourse (turf), with a prize of 27,000 euros for the winner. The 2011 edition has the following partants:

Ariete Arrollador (GB, 2007) [Kingsalsa-Proud Donna(Kaldoun)]. Winner of the 2010 Premio Cimera, he was second to Amadeo Rey in the Premio Habitancum this season. Owned by Cuadra Albero, trained by G. Arizkorreta, he will be ridden by J. L. Borrego.

Bottega (USA, 2007) [Mineshaft-Sun is Up(Sunday Silence)] is a chestnut colt, owned by Cuadra Madroños and trained by M. Delcher S. He will be ridden by Borja Fayos. Bottega won the Criterium de Languedoc (Listed race) at two. He spent most of his 3yo season running 2,400 m races and has been redirected to 1,600-1,400 m this year. He won his last start in Tarbes (France).

Compton Park (GB, 2007) [Compton Place-Corps de Ballet] Owned by Rachel Teadale Racing, trained by J. L. Eyre, he will be ridden by J. L. Martínez.

Doende (SPA, 2006) [Wagon Master-Chloe(Green Desert)] a bay colt, owned by Cuadra Río Cubas, trained by J. C. Fernández, will be ridden by B. Fayos. Doende won the 1,800 m Gran Premio de Nacionales, beating Suntuoso and then was second to Suntuoso in the GP de Andalucía.

Makaamen (GB, 2006), [Selkirk-Bird Key] is a chestnut gelding, owned and trained by T. Callejo that will be ridden by F. Lynch

Peñalen (GB, 2006) [King's Best-Quarter Note] owned by Cuadra Viguria, trained by J. M. Osorio, will be ridden by J. Crocquevieille.

Shumookh (GB, 2003) [Mujahid-Midway Lady(Alleged)] owned by Cuadra Los Aspirantes-Dos tumbos, trained by T. Callejo, will be ridden by J. L. Cerqueira. He won in his last start, beating Bellaside

Silverside (USA, 2006) [Pleasantly Perfect-Lyrical Ghost] owned by Cuadra SafSaf, trained by Frederick Sánchez is arguably the best miler in Spain and, along with his starts in Turkey, France and Dubai, he won the 2009 Premio Cimera (2,000 Guineas), beating As de Trébol, the GP de la Hispanidad, twice (2009 and 2010, the GP de la Hispanidad is a weight for age 1,600 mile race in Madrid in autumn) and the last edition of this Gran Premio Claudio Carudel. Silverside was 3rd in the Prix Edmond Blanc Gr. 3 this year.

Suntuoso (SPA, 2005 [Sherman-Ninuca(Ti King)], won the Gran Premio de Andalucía in the Dos Hermanas racetrack (Seville), beating Doende and Compton Park, and has reappeared some weeks ago, beaten by Shumookh, Bellaside

Volapie (SPA, 2007) [Multazem-Bassaver] is a bay gelding, owned by Cuadra Romana Alta, trained by M. J. Pérez, that will be ridden by M. Díaz. Volapie was fourth in the Mijas Cup and then won in the dirt in Madrid.

Bellaside (IRE, 2007) (La Vie del Colori-Brockton Saga] is a bay filly, owned by Grupo Bolaños Gran Canaria, trained by E. León and will be ridden by V, Janacek. She was one of the best fillies at 2, and she was second to Silverside in the GP Hispanidad last autumn. This season, she was 7th in the Premio Habitancum, 1st in the Premio Andrés Covarrubias and 3rd to Shumookh and Lince in her last start.

Volcánico (IRE, 2008) [Refuse to Bend-Zayana], a bay colt, is the only 3 yo of the race. He was champion 2 yo, and began well his 3yo season, winning the Torre Arias, but was 5th in the Premio Cimera and third in his last start. He is owned by Cuadra Los Toneles, trained by F. Rodríguez and will be ridden by R. C. Montenegro.


The race is named after Claudio Carudel, the French jockey, established in Spain for a long time, almost a household name in Spain for anyone and who was the jockey for Villapadierna, Beamonte and then Cuadra Rosales, a historical stable owned by the late Antonio Blasco. Carudel came to Spain from Chantilly (France) at 19, in 1958 and retired from racing in 1989, after winning a great number of the biggest races in Spain, including 12 times the GP de Madrid.

Winners of the previous editions of the race are: Silverside (2010), Lorgan (2009), Yepes (2008), Trueno Negro (2007) and Dirce (2006). Here is the video of the last running of this race: GP Claudio Carudel 2010, with Silverside beating the frontrunner Shumookh, both partants this Sunday.

Shumookh and Don Hernando Hab won the miles

There were two races over a mile in the Sunday meeting, one for 4yo+ and the other for 3 yo.

The first one was won by Shumookh (IRE, 2003), the bay gelding owned by Cuadra Los Aspirantes-Dos Tumbos, trained by T. Callejo and ridden by J.C. Cerqueira. He won wire to wire, with Lince second and Bellaside third. Shumookh seems in good form for his third attempt to win the GP Claudio Carudel, the main mile for 3 yo+ in the spring at La Zarzuela. He was second to Silverside last year. Shumookh [Mujahid-Midway Lady] has now 31 starts with 10 wins, 14 placings and more than 190,000 euros in prize money.

Cerqueira checks his rivals aboard Shumookh. Photo courtesy of turfarganda.blogspot.com

This is the race: Premio Patrimonio Nacional


Meanwhile, in the mile for 3 y/o, the winner was the Spanish bred Don Fernando Hab [Intikhab-Flying Fulmar], who took advantage of the movement of Volcánico (IRE) towards the stand side, losing some ground. Del Cossa (FR) was second and Volcánico, third.

Also this Sunday, two miles and first product of Caradak

Besides the Premio Beamonte, the meeting of this Sunday includes two interesting races over a mile:

The Premio Patrimonio Nacional, for 4 yo+, includes among its partants Shumookh [GB, 2003, bay gelding] [Mujahid-Midway Lady] owned by Cuadra Los Aspirantes-Dos Tumbos, trained by T. Callejo and ridden by J. C. Cerqueira and Bellaside (IRE, 2007, bay filly) [La Vie dei Colori-Brockton Saga], owned by Grupo Bolaños-Gran Canaria, trained by E. León and ridden by E. León, the 2-1 of the recent Premio Andrés Covarrubias.

Suntuoso (SPA, 2005) reappears after his win in the GP de Andalucía, a 1,600 m race in the Dos Hermanas racetrack (Seville).

Guerendiain (SPA, 2007) [Dyhim Diamond-Sharp and Star], owned by Cuadra San Cristóbal and trained by J. López, has won 4 of her 5 last starts and her last 4 starts in Madrid. She will be ridden by Oscar Ortiz de Urbina.

Peñalén (GB, 2006) [King's Best-Quarter Note], a bay gelding owned by Cuadra Viguria and trained by J. M. Osorio, will be ridden by J. Crocquevieille.
Other partants are: Turrialba, Lince and Whoswithya

The 6th race, Premio Wildsun, a 1,600 m race for 3 y/o, with only 6 partants has, however, the presence of Volcánico (IRE) [Refuse to Bend-Zayana], winner of the Premio Torre Arias and best 2 y/o in 2010, who will face Dixlesio (IRE) [Ifraaj-Sabaah Elfull], winner of 3 of his last 4 outings, and second in the other, Del Cossa (FR) [Della Francesca-La Frandiere], recent winner in his third start, Don Fernando Hab (SPA) [Intikhab-Flying Fulmar], El Incendio (IRE) and Don Pablos (IRE).


In the first race, a 1,000 m race for 2 yo debutants, Fearside will be the first product of the Dehesa de Milagro stallion Caradak to race (at least in Spain). She is a bay filly by Caradak-Fear to Tread(Peintre Celebre), owned by Cuadra SafSaf and trained by F. Rodríguez.

Volcánico (IRE) wins the Premio Torre Arias

Volcánico (IRE) winner of the Gran Criterium last year, won today the Premio Torre Arias, a 1,400 m race for colts in La Zarzuela, traditional trial for the Premio Cimera (Spanish 2,000 Guineas), over a very heavy going. Barking was first for most of the way and stayed well advanced the home stretch, and Volcanico had to fight hard to beat Barking and resist the final charge of Cielo Canarias.

Cielo Canarias (IRE) [Exceed and Excel-Summer Dance(Sadler's Wells)] was second, with Sergei (IRE) [Gulch-Seasonal Style(Generous)] third and Barking (IRE) [Bahri-Pivot-d'Amour(Pivotal)] fourth.
Volcánico [Refuse to Bend-Zayana(Darshaan)]is owned by Cuadra Los Toneles and trained by Francisco Rodríguez and was ridden by Julien Grosjean.

Volcánico (number 2) beating Cielo Canarias (5). Photo courtesy of cortacabeza.wordpress.com

Here is the race: Premio Torre Arias 2011. Volcánico: dark blue body with yellow epaulettes, yellow cap.

Meanwhile, in the first race, a 1,800 m maiden race for colts, the winner was Arnuero (GB, 2008) [Sakhee-Penang Pearl(Bering)] half brother to none other than Harbinger, the highest rated horse in the world in 2010. It was the second start (after a second place last year) for this bay colt, owned by Cuadra Bering, trained by M. Delcher S. and ridden by Borja Fayos.

Volcánico (IRE) to reappear in the Premio Torre Arias this Sunday

Volcánico (IRE) [Refuse to Bend-Zayana], the best 2 y/o in Spain in 2010 (after Irish Field), will reappear this Sunday in the Premio Torre Arias, a 1,400 m race for colts, traditional trial for the Premio Cimera (Spanish 2,000 guineas) at the La Zarzuela track (Madrid).

Volcánico, 2010. Photo courtesy of cortacabeza.wordpress.com


His rivals will be:
Barking (IRE) [Bahri-Pivot d'Amour], owned by Cuadra BP San Mateo, trained by O. Anaya, who will be ridden by Iván López, comes from three consecutive wins in the last of his 11 starts, two in Dos Hermanas and the last one in Mijas.

Golfo Pérsico (IRE) [Diamond Green-Bajan Belle] is a dark bay colt, half brother to Ercolini, owned by Los Toneles-Reza Pazooki and trained by F. Rodríguez, who has 5 starts with one win and four placings.

El Incendio (IRE) [Clodovil-Duckmore Bay(Titus Livius)] was second to Volcánico in the Gran Criterium and then third in Maisons Laffite in November. He is trained by J. L. Maroto and owned by Cuadra Becares. He will be ridden by Oscar Ortiz de Urbina.

Valle (USA) [E Dubai-Azelna(Tropular)] won in his second start in Mijas. His owner is Cuadra Bering and he is trained by M. Delcher S. Borja Fayos will be his jockey.

Other partants are: Sergei (IRE), Cielo Canarias (IRE), Don Pablos (IRE) and Gran Duque (IRE).

Among the previous winners of the Premio Torre Arias is As de Trébol (USA), who will race in the Godolphin Mile this Saturday. Here is As de Trébol (USA) winning the Premio Torre Arias 2009

Official ratings (II): Volcánico (IRE)

After Irish Field (IRE, Dubawi-Turkana Girl), Gr. 2 winner in France, was sold to a Hong Kong owner, Volcánico (IRE) is the highest rated 2yo of 2010 still in training in Spain.

This colt, by Refuse to Bend and Zayana, owned by Cuadra Los Toneles and trained by F. Rodríguez, has a total of 5 starts in Spain, with two wins, two seconds and one third. He comes from an Aga Khan family, the same of Zarkava.

Tha main reason for giving him the highest rating was his impressive win in the Gran Criterium (Video) in October 17th, the most important race for 2 yo in the autumn in Madrid, 1,600 m. Volcánico's jockey wears a dark blue jacket with a yellow cap. Here, he defeated Clunia (IRE), the Silent Times filly who had won all the previous main races for 2 year olds in 2010.