The road begins for the three-year-olds at San Isidro with the Dos Mil Guineas

Ardiendo, winner of the Gran Criterium, leads a field of 15 colts looking to make their mark in classic company at San Isidro

Ardiendo, winner of the Gran Criterium / JUAN I. BOZZELLO

The first major stop of the second semester for the new generation is already taking shape. With initial entries now closed, the Gran Premio Dos Mil Guineas (G1-1600m, turf, ARS 50 million purse) has its list of probable contenders for the July 26 edition at Hipódromo de San Isidro.

Fifteen colts were entered in the preliminary stage for this traditional mile test, which boasts a high-profile lineup led by Ardiendo (Remote), fresh off his victory in the Gran Premio Gran Criterium (G1), and featuring four other stakes winners, setting the stage for a highly competitive and attractive contest.

Representing Stud San Isidoro, Ardiendo is the clear standout. After breaking his maiden over 1400 meters at San Isidro, he impressed with a strong Gran Criterium win over Es Por Amor (Strategos), who is also among the entries and recently confirmed his quality with another victory over the same trip at the northern track.

Also notable is Bolero Frank (Gidu), winner of the Clásico Asociación de Propietarios de Caballos de Carrera (G3), who was fourth last out in the Pedro Goenaga (G2), a race where Piñazo (John F. Kennedy) finished third and now looks for redemption after an unsuccessful Gran Criterium attempt.

Full Keynote (Full Mast) will try to bounce back after two fourth-place finishes in the Chevalier (G2) and the Gran Criterium. The Haras Gran Muñeca runner remains highly regarded, having won his first two starts, including the Clásico Antártida Argentina (L).

The list also features colts who, while yet to earn black type, have shown steady progress and consistency, such as Forgging (Forge), a two-time winner at shorter distances, and Cortocircuito (Strategos), who broke his maiden at this distance on this turf.

Others joining the fray include Hi Mohmix (Hi Happy), a debut winner over 1400 meters; Have Fun (Fortify) and The Great Racing (The Great Day), both mile winners; as well as Brazilian-bred Phanton (Outstrip), who disappointed in the Criterium after an earlier win.

Two entries share both sireline and precocity: The Great Wells (The Great Day) and Uncle Moi (Uncle Mo), both prominent in the Clásico Zubiaurre (1500m). The former won that race on debut before finishing fifth in the G1, while the latter was runner-up in the Zubiaurre and then broke his maiden over a mile.

Completing the list is Real Rim (Remote), who showed good ability in his first two starts, winning over 1200 meters before finishing second in the Chevalier, though he underperformed in the Gran Criterium. Finally, Malevo Song(Sixties Song), runner-up at Palermo last out after a lackluster debut, will aim to improve in what promises to be a demanding field.

With ARS 25 million going to the winner, the Gran Premio Dos Mil Guineas will not only officially kick off the three-year-old season at the top level in San Isidro but will also help shape the divisional rankings moving forward.

Final confirmations close at noon on Monday, July 21, and the Guineas will headline what promises to be a strong racecard.