Just as in 2014, Alfredo Camogli's stable clinched both stakes that kick off the selection process at Palermo
Fantasioso Pass kicked off a spectacular day for Haras El Alfalfar in the Guillermo Kemmis (G3) on Sunday at Hipódromo Argentino de Palermo, and Sarzana Pass closed it out in style by capturing the Clásico Carlos Casares (G3). Both races, contested over 1000 meters on dirt, marked the beginning of the juvenile stakes season for fillies at the venue.
Adding to Haras El Alfalfar’s remarkable record in the Casares, which now totals six wins following triumphs in 2011, 2014, 2017, 2020, and 2024, the Distinctiv Passion filly delivered an impressive performance in her third career start. She spearheaded a 1-2 finish for her silks, defeating her stablemate Verdadera Pass (Distinctiv Passion) in commanding fashion.
Sarzana Pass led every step of the way, showcasing dominance reminiscent of the colts’ division earlier in the day. As the race progressed, her stablemate closed in and briefly threatened her lead. However, Sarzana Pass found another gear, pulling away to win by three lengths.
La Bella Otero (Daddy Long Legs), who had defeated Sarzana Pass in their shared debut, had to settle for third this time, finishing just a nose behind the runner-up. Black Happy (Hi Happy) checked in a distant fourth. The final time for the race was 55.68 seconds, 0.58 seconds slower than the clocking by Fantasioso Pass in the Guillermo Kemmis earlier on the card.
Ridden by Gustavo Calvente and trained by his father, Héctor, Sarzana Pass continues to show improvement. "She keeps getting better with each start, and every time she runs, she gives a little more," said Calvente after the win. "It’s a pleasure to secure victories like these for owners who put their trust in us, and having them achieve a double makes it even more special."
The bay filly is the second foal out of Genovesa Key (Key Deputy), who herself was a winner of the Clásico Venezuela (G2). Her granddam, La Toscana Cat (Easing Along), won this same Casares in 2011, underscoring the pedigree power behind this victory. The family is a cornerstone of Haras El Alfalfar, tracing back to Sugary (World Cup) and producing champions such as Llorón Cat (Easing Along), the G1 winners Compasivo Cat (Easing Along), Todo Tango Key (Key Deputy), and Villero Cat (Easing Along), the remarkable Tristeza Cat (Easing Along), and Papusa Pass (Distinctiv Passion), who took this same race in 2024.
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