El Epecuén claimed the battle of titans in the Gran Premio Ciudad de Buenos Aires

Just as in November, when he claimed the Maipú, the son of Il Campione dominated once again on the Palermostraight; Labrado, a remarkable second, ahead of Naranccello and Le Cornette

With the grandstands packed as an impressive backdrop, El Epecuén claimed victory in the battle of the Gran Premio Ciudad de Buenos Aires (G1-1000 m, dirt), closing out the unforgettable festival of the Gran Premio República Argentina (G1).

A horse of remarkable quality, he overcame the tireless champion Labrado (Le Blues), showing his strength from the 400-meter mark to the wire and confirming his profile as a leader whenever the specialty's major events take place at Avenida del Libertador and Dorrego.

The son of Il Campione had already secured the Gran Premio Maipú (G1) last November, and now, after a couple of defeats, he proved once again that this is where he feels most comfortable. He was forced to become a sprinter due to physical issues after the turn had been the initial source of success in his career.

In a race that was evenly matched throughout, El Epecuén was in the thick of the action from the start, just behind a Labrado who once again appeared much more active early on, while Le Cornette (Emmanuel), the favorite who was undefeated this season, was bumped at the break.

From the 500-meter pole to the wire, it was a fight between the three titans of the straight, later joined by the colt Naranccello (Le Blues). At the finish, El Epecuén held a 3/4-length advantage over Labrado, with Naranccellofinishing third by a head and Le Cornette completing the superfecta another half-length back, all in a remarkable time of 55s84/100.

While El Epecuén is a deserving recipient of praise, the same path must be taken with Labrado. Soon to turn 7 years old, he showed that the energy still flows strongly through his veins and that his title as a three-time champion is well-earned.

Looking ahead, the category—one of the most entertaining in the country for a long time—promises an intense wait until the Gran Premio Estrellas Sprint (G1) at the end of June on the turf of San Isidro. Most likely, the four horses that defined the Ciudad de Buenos Aires will meet again there, promising another spectacle of the highest technical level and fueling the fans' expectations.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gOJj4RG4e1g