Argentina’s turf marathon is set: 3000 meters, history, and courage

The traditional G3 will be Sunday’s main attraction at San Isidro, with ten contenders ready to tackle the longest trip on the calendar

Equal Mostaza and Halteres battling it out in the Clásico Cocles / HSI

After two lackluster programs, quality racing returns Sunday to the turf at San Isidro, headlined by a new edition of the Clásico General Pueyrredón (G3), contested over 3000 meters—the longest race on the Argentine calendar.

Although it had been announced in 2024 that the race would be shortened to a mile and a half, the measure was not approved by the International Federation of Horseracing Authorities, which ultimately led to the distance being preserved.

When the proposed change became public, the turf world reacted negatively, given the Pueyrredón’s unique place as one of the few remaining reminders of the sport’s long-distance traditions. The Jockey Club Argentino leadership appears to have taken that perception into account, and for now has no intention of reducing it to 2400 meters. A further positive step would be to create a series of races at so-called “dead distances,” giving stayers a stage to showcase their abilities—something the public greatly enjoys. Time will tell.

On a 14-race card, the Pueyrredón drew a field of ten, blending proven names with others daring to attempt the unknown.

Equal Mostaza (Equal Stripes) brings an improving profile to the challenge. Racing for Stud Las Monjitas, he was runner-up in the Clásico General Belgrano (G2) at Palermo before being promoted via disqualification in the Clásico Cocles (L) here, where he had finished a head behind Halteres (Hat Ninja), who reappears as a key rival once more.

On class, Epityrum looms as a central figure. Winner of the Gran Premio 2000 Guineas (G1) as a juvenile, his résumé also includes victories in the Clásico Chacabuco (G2), Clásico Yatasto (G3), Clásico Mineral (L), and Clásico Expressive Halo (L), along with a string of valuable placings. He comes off a distant fourth behind Crazy Talent (Equal Talent) when attempting to defend his Chacabuco title, but at his best few in the field can match him.

The Gladiator’s Hat (Hat Ninja) endured frustration after winning the Handicap Jorge H. Iglesias, only to be disqualified for the use of Lasix, which was not permitted in that race. His connections will be eager for quick redemption here.

At age seven, El Darwin (Il Campione) continues to add to his already notable résumé. Though unplaced last time in the 1800-meter Handicap Pronto, he has often shown his best over extended distances and could prove tough to reel in if allowed to dictate terms up front.

Breaking from the rail, Soñador Spring (Greenspring) is a relentless galloper who just won a 2200-meter dirt allowance. Runner-up to He’s a Rockstar (Endorsement) in the 2024 edition of this race, he returns in search of revenge.

Rounding out the field, Ninguneando (Bodemeister) and Q Poderoso (Forty One) arrive in good form and look to step up, while Es Asombroso (Es Después) and Southern Secret (Southern Cat) add depth to a competitive lineup.