The Argentine star galloped this Saturday at King Abdulaziz, showcasing incredible physical condition despite the long journey from Buenos Aires; Intense For Me is recovering
By Diego H. Mitagstein
RIYADH, Arabia Saudita.- El Kódigo is one of those horses that astonishes, not only with his speed (as evidenced by his performances), but also with his undeniable class. Jockey Gustavo Calvente and the entire Stud Juan Antonio team have always maintained that he was exceptional, doing things differently, uniquely. Things that left everyone in awe.
At this point, there's seemingly nothing he can’t do perfectly, reaffirming the beliefs of those who know him best. In his light gallop on Saturday morning at King Abdulaziz Racetrack, already wearing his saddle for the Saudi Cup (G1), it's truly incredible to watch the son of Equal Stripes as if he were still at Palermo.
Physically perfect, showing no signs of fatigue from the long trip, El Kódigo is fueling the hope for the major challenge he’ll face next week in the world's richest race, going up against many of the best dirt horses worldwide.
On the other hand, Intense For Me (Fortify), the other Argentine and South American contender for the Saudi Cup, hasn’t had the same experience. He’s feeling the effects of the long trip from Buenos Aires on his body, though he’s slowly recovering.
More and more horses are arriving for the big event, with horses from Dubai expected between Monday and Tuesday, including the Argentine Giustino (Full Mast). He will run in the Saudi Derby (G3) under the colors of La Providencia, trained by Julio Olascoaga and Antonio Cintra. He’s currently in excellent form, aiming to put behind his disappointing performance in the UAE 2000 Guineas (G3), where the notorious desert kicks played a part in his setback.
As for the schedule, the Saudi Cup will start next Saturday at 20:40 local time, around 14:40 in Buenos Aires, with live coverage on ESPN and Disney+ for both Argentina and Latin America.
The Saudi Derby, on the other hand, will take place third in the program, with a start scheduled for 16:30 local time, or 10:30 in Argentina. It will be the first major race of the day for Thoroughbreds, as the program will first feature international handicaps and the Obaiyah Arabian Classic (G1) for Arabian horses.
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