Amuni stepped up at the perfect time and now has his sights firmly set on the Gran Premio Dardo Rocha
The son of Tetaze debuted for new connections with a commanding victory in the Clásico Stud Book Argentino (L), defeating Nassau by 2 lengths. William Pereyra was in the irons for the first time, while Martín Garrido saddled him on behalf of Juan Saldivia
LA PLATA.— The changes worked wonders for Amuni. In his first outing under the training of Juan Saldivia and with William Pereyra aboard for the first time, the son of Tetaze took a major step forward to score an authoritative victory in the Clásico Stud Book Argentino (L-2200 m, fast dirt), one of the vital stepping stones on the El Bosquecalendar toward the Gran Premio Dardo Rocha (G1).
Saddled by Martín Garrido due to the suspension currently being served by Saldivia, the defender of Stud Doble S.S.left a lasting impression. He not only defeated two of the stayer division's proven benchmarks in Nassau (Forge) and Sono Perfetto (Tetaze), but did so with supreme authority, without needing a perfect trip, and leaving the distinct feeling that he still has room for improvement.
Pereyra kept him well-positioned from the start, tracking the pace closely and preventing the leaders from opening up too wide a margin. Amuni traveled smoothly, always within striking distance for his jockey, before launching his move with conviction as they rounded the far turn. By that point, it was clear he had plenty in reserve to play a starring role in the lane.
Once in the homestretch, the dark bay confirmed those indications. Set in pursuit of Nassau, he steadily reeled him in before seizing control, maintaining his momentum to draw away under the wire. He established a 2-length margin at the finish, covering the 2200 meters in 2m19s13/100 to deliver a performance far more dominant than the final winning margin suggested.
Nassau turned in another solid effort to hold second, reaffirming his consistency among the top older horses at La Plata. Another 4 lengths back came Sono Perfetto, who was slightly less effective than in his previous starts, while Jangadero (Gouverneur Morris) finished fourth just a head further behind.
This marked the fifth career victory for Amuni and his second at the stakes level. He had recorded his most significant triumph back in June, capturing the Clásico Antonio Cané (G3) by 4 lengths over 2100 meters, but had struggled to maintain that level of form in subsequent outings. His performance on Tuesday represents a complete resurgence and, above all, a major leap forward.
Joining the Saldivia barn initiated a new chapter for the son of Tetaze and Giulitta (Most Improved), bred by Sergio O. Savi. There was little time to settle him into his new routine, but the initial response could not have been better. His rapport with Pereyra was equally seamless; the rider remained patient throughout, keeping him balanced before calling for his maximum effort.
The Gran Premio Dardo Rocha is drawing nearer, with key preps still to be written ahead of the November 19 showpiece. The demands will heighten as the distance extends to 2400 meters against a deeper cast of contenders. However, Amuni has firmly entered the conversation with a performance grounded in substance.
In a distance division still seeking an indisputable leader, the Clásico Stud Book Argentino delivered a clear signal: Amuni has progressed, answered the bell against proven rivals, and taken an ideal first step with his new connections. If he can sustain this upward trajectory, dreaming of a major role in the Dardo Rocha is no longer an overstatement—it has officially begun to take shape.
