Sarzana Pass Looms Large in a Deep Renewal of the Clásico Venezuela

After finishing seventh in the Gran Premio Suipacha (G1), the El Alfalfar filly returns to action against her own sex

Sarzana Pass has displayed her power on several occasions throughout the season / JUAN I. BOZZELLO

Speed will take center stage Monday at the Hipódromo Argentino de Palermo, where the Clásico Velocidad (G2)—run over 1000 meters—promises a compelling generational clash between 3-year-olds and older mares. Adding to the intrigue, a victory here could secure a coveted berth in next month’s Gran Premio Maipú (G1).

A field of six has been confirmed, headed by Sarzana Pass, the El Alfalfar homebred who has put together a stellar campaign this season. The dark bay daughter of Distinctiv Passion returns to facing her own sex after finishing seventh, seven lengths behind three-time champion Labrado (Le Blues) in the Gran Premio Suipacha (G1)—her first outing on the turf at San Isidro.

Before that, Sarzana Pass had built an enviable résumé, capturing the Clásicos Carlos Casares (G3), México (G3), and Carlos Pezoa, as well as the Especial Gay Hermit, while finishing runner-up in the 1200-meter Clásico Saturnino J. Unzué (G2).

Her main rival may once again be a familiar one: La Bella Otero (Daddy Long Legs), another 3-year-old, whom she faced when both made their debuts nearly a year ago—La Bella Otero prevailing then—but whom Sarzana Pass later defeated in the Casares. A winner herself in the Clásico General Lavalle (G3), La Bella Otero recently returned from a layoff to finish two lengths behind Go Clari Go (Strategos) in the Clásico Lotería de la Ciudad de Buenos Aires (G3), signaling she’s back on form.

Also in the lineup is Verdadera Pass, another El Alfalfar and Distinctiv Passion filly, who was third—just a neck behind La Bella Otero—in that same Lotería renewal.

The older contingent is strong as well. Flamboyance Rim (Remote), winner of the Clásico Ocurrencia (G3), returns after a fifth in the México (G3); Beau Breeze (AP Candy), victorious in the Clásico República de Panamá (G3) in June, seeks to regain her best form; while Enjoy Dancing (Hi Happy), a multiple stakes winner, comes off a much-improved runner-up effort, three lengths behind La Gran Furtiva (South Kissing) in the Clásico Condesa (G3).

With proven class, speed, and a bit of rivalry, the Clásico Velocidad shapes as one of the highlights of the week at Palermo—and a key stepping stone toward the Gran Premio Maipú (G1).