The cheers echoed across Del Mar as trainer John Sadler kissed Full Serrano’s neck in the morning paddock, signaling a hopeful return to the races for the Argentine-bred superstar. The six-year-old, who captivated racing fans with a near-miss in the Pacific Classic and a victorious Breeders’ Cup Dirt Mile last year, makes his 2025 debut Monday in a second-level allowance race at Del Mar.
“He’s doing very well,” Sadler said, his eyes bright with anticipation. “A mile on dirt is perfect for him. We’re really excited to see him back.”
Choosing Dirt Over Turf for the Debut
Initially entered in the G2 Del Mar Mile on turf this Saturday, Sadler ultimately decided to keep Full Serrano on dirt. Though the horse ran four times on turf in Argentina, it’s his dirt performances in the U.S. that have made him a fan favorite. Full Serrano stormed to victory in his American debut at Del Mar and narrowly missed the Pacific Classic, only to erase any disappointment with a wire-to-wire triumph in the Breeders’ Cup Dirt Mile.
A Three-Race Plan Toward the Breeders’ Cup
“It’s the start of a three-race process,” Sadler explained. “This one, a race at Santa Anita, and then he’ll be ready for the Breeders’ Cup, I’m hoping.”
Challengers Eyeing the Labor Day Spotlight
Monday’s allowance field includes some intriguing challengers. Two Rivers Over, trained by Doug O’Neill, won the G2 Godolphin Mile in Dubai last year but has raced just once since.
“We gave him a little time after Dubai,” O’Neill said, recounting a difficult recovery from an eye infection and knee issues. “Both eyes are working now, and he’s doing well. We’re hoping today sparks a good effort.” Two Rivers Over has a flawless 2-for-2 record at Del Mar.
Other contenders include Packs a Wahlop, the 2022 G3 Juvenile Turf Stakes winner at Del Mar and runner-up in the G2 Charles Whittingham at Santa Anita earlier this year, as well as Il Bellator, American Admiral, and Ghazaaly. Probable post time is 2 p.m. on Del Mar’s 11-race holiday card, with Full Serrano the 3/5 morning-line favorite under jockey Juan Hernandez.
Jockeys and Trainers in Tight Seasonal Battles
Meanwhile, the jockey standings are heating up as the summer meet winds down. Defending champion Juan Hernandez holds a slim lead over perennial challenger Antonio Fresu, 38 wins to 35, with both jockeys riding top contenders on Monday.
In the trainer race, Hall of Famer Bob Baffert leads with 19 wins, closely pursued by Mark Glatt and Phil D’Amato, who have each notched 16 victories so far this season.
Upcoming Stakes Spotlight: Two-Year-Old Titles and Big Weekend Action
Del Mar’s closing weekend promises thrilling stakes action with the G1 Debutante and G1 Futurity spotlighting the best two-year-olds on the grounds, including potential future stars for the Breeders’ Cup and Kentucky Derby. Saturday’s card also features the G2 John C. Mabee and Juvenile Fillies Turf, while Sunday culminates with the G1 Del Mar Futurity and the G3 Del Mar Juvenile Turf.
Full Serrano Poised for Another Memorable Campaign
As Full Serrano prepares to charge back into the spotlight, fans will be watching closely. After the highs and setbacks of 2024, Del Mar’s Labor Day allowance race may well set the stage for another unforgettable campaign from one of the season’s brightest stars.
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Full race schedule and entries available at Del Mar Racetrack.
