Deep Feeling pulled off the upset and Urbano Chávez celebrated his first graded victory
The 3-year-old filly surprised the older horses in the Clásico Carlos P. Rodríguez (G2) over the San Isidro turf mile, edging Verenna by a half-head in a thrilling finish. The favorite Gota Clara Sos finished sixth, while Herd Immunityproved disappointing in her comeback
Youth ultimately dictated terms in the Clásico Carlos P. Rodríguez (G2—1600 meters), the feature event of Sunday's card at Hipódromo de San Isidro. And it was not one of the 3-year-old fillies favored in the forecast, but Deep Feeling, who rediscovered her sharpest form to surprise the older horses and become the first 3-year-old of the season to achieve such a feat.
The daughter of Seahenge did not need to win by several lengths to leave a lasting mark. A precise late rally along the inside rail and an inspired ride by Urbano Chávez were enough, as he found the winning lane just when Verenna(Cosmic Trigger) appeared to have victory sealed. Barely a half-head separated the pair at the wire following a thrilling finish that also featured Pawnee Drive (Lucullan) as a key protagonist.
The race unfolded at a demanding early tempo from the break. Herd Immunity (Forge), making her comeback after her crowning victory in the Gran Premio Criadores (G1) on May 1, assumed the lead, closely stalked by Kalady (Il Campione). Fractions of 23.96, 46.60, and 1:10.43 reflected the intensity of the early battle, which would ultimately exact a heavy toll on both front-runners.
As soon as they entered the home stretch, Herd Immunity began to retreat alarmingly, finishing last, 30 1/4 lengths back, in a performance that raised immediate suspicions of a physical setback. Kalady likewise proved unable to sustain the effort and steadily faded.
That was when Verenna emerged from the pack, taking command with authority and establishing a margin that seemed sufficient. However, the final meters proved grueling for her. Pawnee Drive was making strong progress on the outside, while Deep Feeling found room along the rail and launched an irresistible surge.
The wire arrived just in time for the 3-year-old filly, who nipped Verenna by a half-head on the line, with Pawnee Drive finishing third, just a head further back. Farther behind, 2 1/2 lengths off the top pair, came Lancara(Manipulator), while the favorite Gota Clara Sos (Made You Look) had to settle for sixth place. The final time was 1:34.18 over a wet turf course.
For Urbano José Chávez, the victory held special significance. The jockey secured his maiden graded stakes triumph—and the biggest score of his career—confirming with a flawless ride that he is well prepared to capitalize on major opportunities.
Trained by Ezequiel Ismael Sánchez and carrying the colors of Stud Color Tango, Deep Feeling logged her third victory in just 7 starts, and her first at the black-type level. Bred by Haras Vacación, she is the fifth foal out of Día de Felicidad (Equal Stripes) and belongs to a distinguished maternal family of Ojo de Agua, which boasts names of the caliber of Dorine (Aristophanes). Once again, that historic bloodline left its signature on a major race day.
Deep Feeling had been one of the earliest 3-year-old fillies to strike this season when she won over 1400 meters in February. She then finished second in the Clásico Eliseo Ramírez (G2), but her subsequent performances in the Gran Premio Jorge de Atucha (G1) and the Gran Premio de Potrancas (G1) fell well short of expectations.
A four-month layoff allowed her campaign to be reset. She returned with an allowance victory, finishing ahead of Gota Clara Sos herself—who had previously beaten her in the Ramírez—and has now made a huge leap forward by conquering older rivals in a G2 contest.
From that precocious filly who opened the year stirring up great expectations to this graded classic winner, the evolution is self-evident. Deep Feeling has firmly re-established herself among the division's leading names, carrying an added badge of merit—and giving her jockey an afternoon he will hardly forget.
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