Thursday, December 22, 2016
Appassionata (USA) by Kantharos – Pop Pop’s Hope, by Valid Trefaire, powered home in the Clásico MIDEREC-G3, the most important race for imported 2-year-olds in Dominican Republic, which was run at Hipódromo V Centenario on December 18th.
The filly stumbled out of the gait and settled several lengths behind stablemate Atrincherado (USA) {First Defence} who was mildly pressured by the talented Between Us (USA) {In Summation}. Halfway down the backstretch Appassionata (USA) gained on the leaders and in the final 600 meters showed he characteristic acceleration. Atrincherado (who later was discovered bled severely) had given way to the pressure of Between Us (USA) and entering the stretch Appassionata (USA) powered away to win by over 4 lengths. The clock stopped at 1:45 4/5, an improvement of nearly 2 seconds upon her previous start at the same distance. Appassionata (USA) remains unbeaten in 3 lifetime starts in what has been a perfect season for her Establo San Antonio who will win the owners title in 2016.
Appassionata (USA) was purchased at the Ocala Breeders’ Sales 2016 June Sale from the Gelfenstein Farm consignment. She was bred in Florida by Jaime Centeno. Her sire Kantharos now stands at Hill 'n' Dale Farms in Kentucky after standing in Florida, where he was Leading Sire in 2016. Kantharos who raced for Stonestreet Stables, was an undefeated Multiple Graded Stakes winner at two, winning his three career starts by over combined 28 1/2 lengths.
Appassionata (USA) runs in the colors of Establo San Antonio and is owned by RSA principals Drs. Angel B. and Angel R. Contreras. Caribbean Hall of Fame trainer Eugenio Deschamps who is assisted by Juan Jimenez trains her. She was ridden by Leading DR rider Hector Hernández.