Full Serrano returned with authority, and trainer John Sadler already has the Breeders’ Cup in mind

The Argentine shone at Del Mar, and his trainer is mapping out a short path toward another G1 test, with the Goodwood Cup, at the end of September, likely to be his next start

Full Serrano impressed in his return / BENOIT PHOTO

DEL MAR, California (Special for Turf Diario).- Argentine star Full Serrano (Full Mast) made a sparkling return to the races Monday at Del Mar, leaving no doubt that he is ready to dream big once again. Off since last November, the Hronis Racing colorbearer reappeared in an allowance at a mile and delivered a dominant performance, the first stop on a campaign designed specifically to reach peak form for the Breeders’ Cup on Nov. 1.

With Juan Hernández in the irons, Full Serrano broke alertly from an outside draw. Though asked for speed early, he quickly settled on the lead, setting fractions of :22.14 and :45.30 while in control throughout. Turning for home, the bay kicked clear with authority and drew off by 7 1/4 lengths, stopping the clock in 1:35.11—well within himself—while earning a 94 Beyer Speed Figure.

“Everything went perfectly,” said trainer John Sadler. “We wanted to bring him back, make sure he felt good, and we accomplished that. This was the first step.”

Bred in Argentina by Haras Gran Muñeca, the son of Full Mast had not been seen since his sensational victory in last year’s GI Breeders’ Cup Dirt Mile at Del Mar, where he stunned top-class opposition with a powerful performance. A subsequent injury forced him to the sidelines, and it wasn’t until July that he returned to training, with the clear objective of coming back in peak condition.

Next on the agenda is the GI Goodwood Stakes at Santa Anita Sept. 27, contested over nine furlongs for $300,000. The result will be pivotal: depending on how he responds, connections will decide whether to aim once more at the GI Breeders’ Cup Dirt Mile or stretch out to the GI Breeders’ Cup Classic at 10 furlongs.

“It’s going to be a short, three-race campaign,” Sadler explained. “The next race will tell us everything. Step one: mission accomplished.”

With seven wins from 17 career starts, Full Serrano has already established himself among the top older horses in the United States. His comeback left a strong statement: the Argentine champion is back, and if this return was any indication, the best may still be to come.