Forgging Goes Gate to Wire in Clásico Ensayo

Forge’s Son Dominates from Start to Finish over Fast Turf at San Isidro; Real Rimout and Ardiendo finished second and third

Forging Takes a Major Step Forward in the Clásico Ensayo / JUAN I. BOZZELLO

Forgging, one of the first 2022 foals to break his maiden at Hipódromo de San Isidro, stamped himself as a leading contender for the Gran Premio Jockey Club (G1) with an impressive front-running performance in the Clásico Ensayo (G3). The win, a direct ticket to the second leg of the Argentine Triple Crown next month, showcased both his talent and his growing maturity.

On an afternoon of high-quality turf racing, the Kemar Stud colt displayed his best form, combining the speed he showed when winning over 800 meters in his debut with the stamina and composure gained over time, despite a period of inconsistency caused by what some might call untimely setbacks.

For trainer Pablo Sahagián, who notched three wins on the card—including two in stakes races—Forging’s victory was a confirmation of the progress he had been showing in previous outings. Stretching out to 1,800 meters, he handled the unknown distance with authority, establishing himself among the top of his generation on the main course at the Jockey Club Argentino.

Forgging’s triumph was far from a surprise. On the day of the 2000 Guineas (G1), he had shown courage, setting the pace deep into the stretch and finishing just behind the now-absent The Great Racing (The Great Day). Friday’s victory instead confirmed his class, talent, and heart.

The firm northern turf had favored early or prominent runners throughout the day, but maintaining the lead throughout, especially under pressure from favorite Ardiendo (Remote)—ridden by Eduardo Ortega Pavón, who ensured Forging never got a breather—was no small feat.

Forgging set splits of 25.26, 48.44, and 1:11.74, before asserting himself in the stretch with Pablo Carrizo urging him to open a gap on his pursuers—a move that proved decisive. From there, it was a matter of holding off persistent challenges, with Ardiendo pressing wide and Real Rimout (Remote) rallying along the inside.

At the wire, Forgging held a half-length advantage over Real Rimout, with Ardiendo a half-length back in third. Jazzy Frank (Gidu) completed the superfecta three lengths behind, all in a final time of 1:47.17, including a mile split of 1:34.49.

Bred by Haras La Providencia, Forgging shares his sire, Forge, with Winston, a standout of his generation in La Plata and winner of the Polla de Potrillos (G3). His dam, Follow (Seeking Daylight), is a maternal sister to champion Freddy (Roy) and has also produced Folke Dancer (Forge), Foofy (Orpen), and Foxtrote (Treasure Beach).

With The Great Racing awaiting in the Gran Premio Jockey Club, Forgging and his main rivals appear on a collision course for another epic showdown, alongside others emerging from the Gran Premio Polla de Potrillos (G1) at Palermo.

Mid-October promises a must-see clash in the second leg of the Triple Crown, where Forgging will have the chance to seek revenge and confirm the courage and stamina that carried him to victory in the Clásico Ensayo. One thing is certain: nothing will come easy. A thrilling race is on the horizon.