The return of Vundu, the main attraction of Friday afternoon at San Isidro

The very good horse from Stud Gran Ascochinga takes on the role of leading contender in the Clásico Macon (L), a race he already won in 2024

Vundu returns, one of the best horses in the country. It will be this afternoon, on the turf at Hipódromo de San Isidro, aiming to claim victory in the Clásico Macon (L-1800m), a race he already won in its 2024 edition.

Quality and ability are trademarks of the son of Suggestive Boy, whose career has been interrupted by recurring health issues. Still, whenever conditions allowed, his talent has been evident.

He captured the Gran Premio Estrellas Classic (G1) here two years ago and also won the Clásico Manuel Anasagasti (L)—as a juvenile—along with the Clásico Engrillado (twice) and the Clásico El Potrillón, always with a style of taking the race to his rivals from early on, either setting the pace or racing close to it.

Things did not go well for him in last October’s Gran Premio Latinoamericano (G1) at Gávea, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and he later finished ninth behind Obataye (Courtier) in the Gran Premio Carlos Pellegrini (G1), after which he was given a well-earned break. Now he returns sound and ready, carrying top weight of 60 1/2 kilos and expected to make his class count.

His main rival appears to be Sabiyano (Fortify, 59 1/2), whose résumé includes victories in the Clásico 9 de Julio – Día de la Independencia (G3) and the Clásico General San Martín (G3), both at La Plata, as well as the Handicap Condal earlier this year over the local dirt.

The chestnut comes off a strong effort in the Clásico América (G2), finishing third, 4 1/4 lengths behind Qué Tarde Gris (Il Campione) and just a neck behind Earth God (Cosmic Trigger), the reigning Champion Miler. He now stretches out in distance, over which he previously finished third in the Clásico Carlos Gardel (L) at Palermo.

Carlos D. Etchechoury saddles the lightly raced Don Machete (Daddy Long Legs) for San Benito, winner of two of his three starts. He has shown quality and will carry 53 1/2 kilos, a weight that gives his connections reason for optimism.

Chanclette (Super Saver, 55) and Touch the Stars (Fortify, 56 1/2) add experience to the field, though they appear a step below the top contenders on paper.