José Álvarez Donoso, Part of the Chilean Dream at the Breeders’ Cup
- Turf Diario
- 3 hours ago
- 3 min read
Trainer José Álvarez Donoso knows the challenge is a tough one, but he’s hopeful Gran Oriente will deliver his very best on Saturday at Del Mar
By Diego H. Mitagstein, special correspondent for Turf Diario in Del Mar, California
DEL MAR, California—South American racing will write a new chapter in its ongoing quest for international glory this weekend, and Chile will be right in the spotlight. With Gran Oriente as standard-bearer, trainer José Álvarez Donoso will try to turn a dream that transcends borders into reality: to earn his country’s first-ever victory at the Breeders’ Cup, in none other than the fiercely competitive Mile (G1), against some of the best horses on the planet.
“Happy, truly happy. This is a completely new experience for us, and we’re enjoying every second of it,” Álvarez said, fully aware that just getting here is a monumental achievement. “The horse is in perfect condition. Since he arrived in California back in June, I’ve been able to visit him every month, and now all that’s left is to hope everything goes right on Saturday.”
A son of Classic Empire racing for Stud Don Simón, Gran Oriente has spent months acclimating to the California environment under the joint care of Álvarez and Marcelo Polanco, another Chilean trainer with decades of U.S. experience.
“Marcelo and I have been friends for many years. When the owners decided to come for the Breeders’ Cup, we immediately agreed to work together. We’ve spoken every day, watched videos of the horse, and he’s done everything right. He adapted beautifully to the different feeding program, training surface, and routine here—it’s all suited him well.”
Álvarez also praised the role of jockey Héctor Berríos, who has been aboard the colt throughout his preparation.
“Héctor started riding him at Santa Anita in September—he’s worked him four or five times, and they understand each other perfectly now. He’s a very sound, strong horse who arrives ready for a demanding test.”
As for race tactics, Álvarez knows what they’re up against but remains cautiously optimistic.
“We know it’s an extremely tough race—there are horses of tremendous quality and a lot of speed. The plan is to let him get comfortable early, not rush him, and take advantage of Del Mar’s short stretch to make one solid run. He’s got tactical speed, but we think his best chance will come from waiting and finishing strongly.”
Gran Oriente won the Clásico Club Hípico de Santiago back home and will be one of two Chilean representatives at this year’s Breeders’ Cup, alongside Richi (Practical Joke), who will contest the Filly & Mare Sprint (G1).
“For us, coming from the end of the world, having multiple Chilean horses here is something truly special,” Álvarez said. “There are Uruguayans, Peruvians, Chileans, Argentines—it shows how South America continues to grow and earn respect.”
He’s realistic about the challenge of facing the powerful Northern Hemisphere operations, yet embraces the moment with pride.
“The resources and structure are very different, but that’s what makes racing beautiful—you still have to show up and run. We have faith we can represent South America well. That’s what matters most.”
When Gran Oriente steps onto the Del Mar turf on Saturday, he’ll be more than just a Chilean runner in the Breeders’ Cup. He’ll be carrying the hopes of an entire continent—one that continues to dream big.
