Bartlemy Returns to Top Form, Dominates Handicap Larrea

Since relocating to Independencia Racetrack in Rosario, the son of Full Mast has shown significant improvement in form

Bartlemy surged as soon as he hit the stretch, sealing his victory with authority / JUAN I. BOZZELLO

Bartlemy returned to top form from Independencia Racetrack in Rosario, emerging as one of the standout performers in a very entertaining Wednesday at Hipódromo de San Isidro, where racing resumed after a weeklong break due to the Lollapalooza festival.

The bay gelding had previously achieved little in top-level races while trained by Gerardo Alteño in Entre Ríos. With just a couple of conditional wins to his name, he arrived at Norberto Ricchi's barn, where his campaign took a dramatic turn. There, he claimed four victories, including the Handicap Plaza 25 de Mayo, and had several strong finishes, setting the stage for his return to the spotlight. In partnership with an inspired Francisco Leandro—who won four races on the day—Bartlemy delivered a decisive victory in the Handicap Larrea over 1300 meters on normal dirt track.

Carrying 56 kilos, the son of Full Mast stayed close to the pace, gradually advancing around the turn to challenge the leaders, Va El Tercero (Señor Candy, 56) and Bar de Copas (Qué Vida Buena, 57). As soon as they reached the straight, Bartlemy took control, pulling away to secure his win early in the stretch.

Further back, Tsunami Key (Key Deputy, 59 1/2) and Power Is Power (Cosmic Trigger, 56 1/2) made their moves, finishing third, seven lengths behind the winner, and just a nose apart in a strong finishing effort. The final time was an impressive 1m15s80/100, with splits of 23s63/100, 46s26/100, and 1m9s66/100. Bar de Copas, the favorite, faded early and finished fourth, with Va El Tercero and the top weight Mississipi (Sabayón, 60) completing the order of finish.

Bred by Haras Chenaut and owned by Stud El Omarcito, Bartlemy is a full brother to the talented Midnight Runner(Forge), who recently won in the northern turf and has had several strong classic performances this season. His dam, Roman Virgin (Roman Ruler), is from the same U.S. family that produced multiple classic winner Elveda (Manipulator), bred by Chenaut.