Del Mar Report: La Quebrada, Desert Gate, and Another Baffert Colt Who Amazes

Great-grandson of Old Star, from the outstanding Ceriani Cernadas breeding family, he powered home by 8 3/4 lengths to capture the Best Pal Stakes (G3) at Del Mar, raising big hopes among the 2-year-old colts

Desert Gate demolished his rivals in the Best Pal Stakes / BENOIT PHOTO

DEL MAR, California (Special for Turf Diario).- At Del Mar, one of American turf’s premier stages, Saturday afternoon belonged to a standout juvenile colt. Desert Gate, representing the colors of Mike Pegram, Karl Watson, and Paul Weitman, confirmed all the promise shown in his debut with an overwhelming display, capturing the Best Pal Stakes (G3 – 1200m, dirt), one of California’s first major stops for 2-year-olds.

The son of Omaha Beach justified his heavy favoritism (1/5) in a field of five, breaking the race open down the stretch and cruising home 8 3/4 lengths clear, with jockey Juan Hernández practically riding him out in the final strides. His final time of 1:10.37 was an impressive statement, marking his first graded victory in just his second career start.

Desert Gate debuted in late June at Santa Anita, winning a maiden race by 2 1/4 lengths, but his latest performance was far more commanding. The Bob Baffert trainee, who earned the Hall of Fame conditioner his 12th Best Pal win, broke sharply, contested the lead early, and once given rein by Hernández, left rivals Pavlovian (Pavel) and Brigante (More Than Ready) without a response.

Purchased last March in Florida for $260,000 at the 2-year-olds in training sale, Desert Gate excites not only for his on-track talent but also for his pedigree. Here lies the detail that stokes pride in Argentine racing: his third dam is none other than the remarkable Old Star (Southern Halo), bred at Haras La Quebrada and a stakes winner at Palermo.

Old Star hails from one of the most influential maternal families at the Ceriani Cernadas stud farm—producers of internationally recognized stars whose impact continues to ripple through elite pedigrees worldwide. That a colt destined to make a mark in demanding California campaigns carries this genetic stamp is no accident; it’s a testament to Argentina’s consistent quality export.

After the race, Hernández was candid: “This horse is usually calm, but today he was eager. He traveled comfortably throughout, and when I asked him, he opened up with ease.” Baffert praised his professionalism, adding, “He’s been serious from day one. The key with 2-year-olds in these races is to have them break cleanly, and he did just that. Now it’s about keeping him healthy and progressing.”

The Best Pal Stakes has served as a launching pad for stars like Lookin At Lucky (Smart Strike), Nyquist (Uncle Mo), and Roman Ruler (Fusaichi Pegasus). Desert Gate could well add his name to that distinguished list. With two flawless outings, $126,000 in earnings, and a physique promising stamina for longer trips, he’s shaping up for the big challenges this northern fall has in store.

As excitement builds in California over what lies ahead, Argentina has extra reason to follow closely: every time Desert Gate unfurls his stretch run, he carries with him a piece of La Quebrada’s history—and that exceptional mare Old Star—shining anew across the hemisphere.