El Ernesto Aims for Back-to-Back "patriotic" Victories

Following his brilliant triumph in the Clásico 25 de Mayo, the evergreen 7-year-old son of Señor Candy is primed to capture another historic patriotic prize as he headlines a deeply competitive renewal of the Clásico 9 de Julio - Día de la Independencia (G3)

The afternoon centerpiece at the racetrack in this city will feature a high-quality renewal of the Clásico 9 de Julio - Día de la Independencia (G3), contested over 1,600 meters on the dirt. Renowned as one of the most competitive events on the local calendar each season, the stakes contest serves as a definitive proving ground for local milers targeting the prestigious Clásico Joaquín V. González (G2) on November 19th.

With such a deep and talented line-up assembled, identifying a clear favorite is a challenging task, though the exceptional form of El Ernesto ultimately tips the scales in his favor. Now a 7-year-old, the son of Señor Candy is racing with the vigor of a juvenile. His most recent display came 44 days ago when he delivered an authoritative four-length victory in the Clásico 25 de Mayo de 1810 (G2), capitalizing on a hot early pace to unleash a devastating late rally.

On that afternoon, he comfortably defeated Don Zahir (Daddy Long Legs), who had set much of the early tempo and will return today eager to turn the tables on his conqueror.

Vampiro Zen (Zensational), Campo Verde (Strategos), and Storm Sound (Hi Happy) also went to the post in the 25 de Mayo, crossing the wire in fourth, sixth, and eighth positions, respectively. While Vampiro Zen turned in a respectable effort, the other two left their connections with unresolved questions.

Campo Verde, who went to the gates as the betting favorite, disappointed by finishing 13 lengths adrift of the winner. It marked his first career attempt at the mile distance, and he must now prove he can handle the journey or consider a return to sprinting, the division where he originally rose to prominence.

Meanwhile, Storm Sound has struggled to regain the stellar form that saw him crowned as the division's leader at this track in 2025. Having finished as the runner-up in the 2024 renewal of this very race, he warrants plenty of respect as he attempts to get his campaign back on track.

The defending race champion, Sabiyano (Fortify), is also seeking to rediscover his best form, though his two most recent outings have offered encouraging signs of improvement. A return to the city of diagonals might provide the ideal setting for him to return to the winner's circle for the first time in six months.

The field is completed by the progressive Purple Nich (Nicholas), who brings both youth and consistent stakes credentials to what promises to be a grueling contest from start to finish.