Three-Time Champion Labrado Returns to Defend His Crown in the Ciudad

Recently crowned Champion Sprinter for the third consecutive season, the superstar Labrado returns to the track to defend his title in a competitive field

Labrado, a Star in Sprint Racing / JUAN I. BOZZELLO

As always, the cherry on top of the Gran Premio República Argentina (G1) meeting at Hipódromo Argentino de Palermo will be the sprinters, with the Gran Premio Ciudad de Buenos Aires (G1-1000 m, dirt) set to go off after 20:25, when many spectators will have already returned home.

The presence of the star Labrado may encourage many to extend their stay at the metropolitan venue, as it is not every day that a horse of his caliber is seen in action—especially one who continues to make history. Recently crowned with an unprecedented third consecutive title as Champion Sprinter, the son of Le Blues returns after 138 days off to defend his crown. Last year, he claimed this very trophy after finishing second to the Uruguayan Girona Fever (Texas Fever) in 2023.

Trained by Ángel Bonetto, Labrado is known for coming back sharp and victorious, and it will be interesting to see if he can do so again. His last appearance was in December, when he finished third behind Arellano (Angiolo) in the Gran Premio Félix de Alzaga Unzué (G1)—the only major race that has eluded him.

The start is not Labrado’s strongest suit, but it will be critical here against a group of 15 opponents, many of whom are known for their ability to close strong, such as the recently unstoppable Lagoa Azul (Lenovo), whose impressive 530 kilos have been wreaking havoc.

The mare has notched four consecutive victories since changing owners, including wins in the Clásico General Alvear(L), Clásico General Arenales (G3), and the Handicap Spiny, the latter while carrying 62 kilos.

Also in the race is Yukon Jack (Remote), whose confidence is rising after his impressive eight-length victory in the Clásico Estados Unidos de América (G3). Like Lagoa Azul, he will not be too far off the pace.

Another fierce mare is Eleven Mile (Il Campione), who returned to winning ways with a comfortable victory in the Handicap Con Brio, while the filly Aubrie (Angiolo) hasn’t raced since January, when she won the Clásico General Francisco B. Bosch (G3) ahead of Vida Amorosa (Safety Check).

Finally, the experienced Filoso Class (Filoso Emperor) is in great form and will look to make his presence felt, while the Rosario-based El Mejor Recuerdo (Il Campione) will aim for a bold move down the stretch.