Emerging talent overcame established class as Nevado Catedral captured the Clásico Benito Villanueva
- Turf Diario
- 6 hours ago
- 2 min read
The colt raced prominently throughout, took command early, and held off the late-charging Comando Secreto, who left his run too late
The winner’s circle belonged to Nevado Catedral (Gouverneur Morris), but the Clásico Benito Villanueva (G2) at a mile on the dirt could have easily gone the way of Comando Secreto (War Command). In a thrilling conclusion to Saturday’s stakes-heavy card at Palermo, the gritty sophomore managed to cling to a head victory over the seasoned veteran, who was arguably the victim of a late lead change. Despite a massive closing kick over the final 150 meters, the winner had done enough early work to secure the prize for Stud Disco Eterno.
The clash highlighted the transition of power between the new generation and the established guard, setting the stage for a highly anticipated rematch in the Gran Premio de las Américas (G1) on May 1st. Nevado Catedral has been a revelation since joining trainer Gerardo Alteño six weeks ago, following up a recent comeback score with a performance that echoed his top-tier efforts in last year’s Estrellas Juvenile (G1) and the Argentine 2000 Guineas (G1).
Displaying the typical progression of a high-class three-year-old, the son of Gouverneur Morris dictated terms from the jump, sparring early with Preston Boss (Holy Boss) while Comando Secreto bided his time at the back of the pack. When the field turned for home, Nevado Catedral and jockey William Pereyra kicked clear to a decisive lead. Under Gonzalo Borda, Comando Secreto struggled to level off in the lane, and while he finished with a flourish once straightened out, the wire came a stride too soon. The final time was a sharp 1:36.34, with Majority Wins (Master of Hounds) checking in third, 2 1/2 lengths adrift. It was the kind of performance that ensures the May 1st international meeting will be one for the books.
Comments