The bay colt from Firmamento switched from dirt to turf, from the straight to the turn, and from 1000 to 1200 meters, yet managed to maintain his unbeaten record
The Clásico Santiago Luro (G2, 1200m, heavy dirt) provided the most thrilling finish of the incredible Saturday of racing at Hipódromo Argentino de Palermo. Showcasing a mix of qualities, The Great Cash extended his unbeaten record and established himself as the top colt, narrowly defeating the brave Fantasioso Pass (Distinctiv Passion) and a future star in Alado Frank (Gidu).
Switching from turf to heavy dirt, and making his first turn in competition while stepping up from 1000 to 1200 meters, the bay colt from Haras Firmamento powered through a heated final stretch, where every cheer mattered right up to the wire.
Always in stride and fighting through the inside, The Great Cash battled with his rivals from the start. Midway down the stretch, it seemed that Fantasioso Pass might overpower him. However, The Great Cash responded and, slightly helped by a clash between his pursuers and Alado Frank, managed to regain his footing and edge ahead.
The photo finish showed half a length separating the winner from Fantasioso Pass, with Alado Frank finishing third, a further length behind, well clear of the rest, and clocking a solid 1:10.37, considering the conditions. This time was just a touch slower than the 1:10.91 it took Roshita (Gouverneur Morris) to win the Unzué (G2) earlier, though she was never fully extended.
Saturday’s juvenile stakes were both won by offspring of first-generation sires. The Great Cash is part of the inaugural crop of The Great Day (Harlan's Holiday), a G1 double winner, and another significant success for Firmamento, following in the footsteps of previous successes such as Kaljerry (Jerry Honor), Just In Case (Salt Marsh), and Fitzcarraldo (Cipayo), among others.
Much credit is due to the three colts who contested the Luro, but it remains to be seen whether they will all stretch out to 1500 meters when the Gran Premio Montevideo (G1) takes place on May 1st. The Great Cash will surely target that race, and if the distance doesn’t pose a problem, he will be one to beat.
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