Primera Fila took a decisive step forward in class to capture the Clásico Los Criadores

The Equal Stripes filly proved far too strong for Soy La Líder, handing José C. Blanco his first big-race success since moving to Haras Vacación

Primera Fila finished powerfully and won with authority / HLP

LA PLATA, Argentina.— Kevin Banegas had never partnered Primera Fila before, but in Thursday’s Clásico Los Criadores (G2–2000m, dirt) at La Plata, it looked very much like a long-standing association.

Racing with striking ease, the Stud-Haras Vacación mare added a bold line to her résumé, while also handing trainer José C. Blanco his first major success since taking over the colors of Damasia Lottero and Pablo Zavaleta just a few months ago.

A daughter of Equal Stripes, Primera Fila had finished last in the Clásico Carlos Tomkinson (G2) over a mile at Palermo in her previous start. Stretching out to 2000 meters for the third time and facing a fairly even group without standout stars, she seized the opportunity in emphatic fashion, asserting clear superiority throughout.

Soy La Líder (Manipulator) took them along early, living up to her name under steady fractions of :25.97, :50.63 and 1:15.30. Meanwhile, Banegas kept Primera Fila settled toward the rear, keen but controlled, biding her time.

Improving wide around the far turn, Primera Fila was set down at the top of the stretch and quickly ranged up to Soy La Líder, drawing alongside with minimal effort before powering clear. She crossed the wire four lengths to the good, with Increpante (Sigfrid) another four lengths back in third. The heavily favored Paxing (Señor Candy) could never get involved and trailed home sixth, beaten a distant 17 lengths. The final time was 2:05.56, with a mile split of 1:40.98.

Primera Fila is out of the stakes-winning Plage (Jump Start), herself a granddaughter of the outstanding La Costa Azul(Southern Halo), heroine of the 1993 Gran Premio Polla de Potrancas (G1) and later the dam of G1 winner Lac Azur(Mutakddim) and La Vida Dulce (Louis Quatorze), producer of G2 winner Vivencial (Mutakddim)—a pedigree rich in class and depth.

With this authoritative performance, Primera Fila firmly announced her arrival at the graded level, delivering a milestone victory for her connections and suggesting there may be more to come.