Hand in Hand sold, trades Gran Premio Nacional bid for Dubai dream

The unbeaten son of Il Campione will join Colorado del Monte in the stable of Mike de Kock; Justin Vermaakcompleted the private purchase, with the UAE Derby (G2) emerging as his first major target

The Gran Premio Nacional (G1) loses one of its premier contenders, while Argentine racing gains a world-class international prospect. Hand in Hand has been sold and will continue his racing career in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, where he will join the barn of hall-of-fame trainer Mike de Kock, with his sights initially set on the UAE Derby (G2) next March.

The transaction was brokered by bloodstock agent Justin Vermaak of Vermaak Equine on behalf of the same ownership group that recently secured Colorado del Monte (Strategos), a project anchored by Hollywood Racing. As a result, two of the top 3-year-olds from the current Argentine crop will share a stable and a trainer in an international venture that rekindles South American hopes at the Meydan carnival.

Unbeaten in two starts, Hand in Hand had firmly established himself among the main figures along the path to the Palermo Derby. Bred by Haras Santa Inés and racing until now for Stud Don Valentino, the son of Il Campione was conditioned by Juan Saldivia and had just confirmed his immense raw potential with a brilliant return to action.

His career debut had been nothing short of explosive: in late May, he drew off to capture the Especial Julio Félix Penna by twelve lengths. That effort was followed by a four-month layoff before the Clásico Coronel Miguel F. Martínez (G3) over 1,800 meters proved that initial impression was well-founded.

Ridden by William Pereyra and saddled on that occasion by Roberto Pellegatta, he overcame a rough start where he was bumped back to last, moved up with complete authority, and dominated without ever being asked for full extension. He defeated Paulo Sil (Treasure Beach) by 2 1/2 lengths in 1m50s22/100, leaving the distinct impression of substantial blue-sky potential. The effortless victory fueled dreams of a Gran Premio Nacional triumph; now, those ambitions will unfold far from Palermo.

The finalization of the deal took several days to materialize due to the unresolved status of Fletcher (Gershwin), another star member of the Saldivia yard. The Gran Premio Polla de Potrillos (G1) winner had been sold to Saudi Arabia, but a post-race positive report following his classic victory delayed confirmation of that transfer. That development temporarily stalled negotiations for Hand in Hand, though his private purchase has now been finalized.

For the local 3-year-old division, the news represents another major void, following the departure of dual G1 winner Colorado del Monte and with Fletcher's immediate future still uncertain. The spring classic campaign loses key protagonists, forcing a complete realignment of the landscape ahead of the upcoming major events.

The flip side lies in the opportunity to restore a strong Argentine footprint in Dubai. Hand in Hand and Colorado del Monte are slated to ship as soon as possible to complete mandatory quarantine requirements, acclimate, and launch their preparations. Time will be essential to ensure both colts adapt seamlessly to new climates, environments, and racing conditions.

The choice of trainer provides a proven foundation. De Kock knows the South American Thoroughbred inside out, having built a major chapter of his international legacy with runners from the region. Asiatic Boy (Not for Sale) remains the only horse ever to sweep the UAE Triple Crown, while Honor Devil (Honour and Glory) also captured the UAE Derby for his barn. Those credentials underscore the team's confidence. The South African handler returns to Meydan this season after a multi-year absence, joining forces with his son Mathew. His return restores a defining figure in the history of the carnival and opens the door for South American bloodstock to reclaim center stage.

Vermaak Equine has successfully brokered numerous Argentine horses, including South African G1 winner Puerto Manzano (Seek Again) and champion filly Kononkop (Pure Prize), among others.

Colorado del Monte, winner of both the Carreras de las Estrellas Juvenile (G1) and the Gran Premio Dos Mil Guineas (G1), was already spearheading the enterprise. Now he is joined by Hand in Hand, who arrives with a shorter career profile but boundless potential. While Argentine racing loses them for its own marquee spring events, the country will hold two strong hands to dream big once again at Meydan.