Beverly D. international scouting report: Sarandia

German shipper Sarandia is intriguing enough on pedigree alone, but the Gestüt Fährhof homebred’s profile hints that she could be a live outsider in the Beverly D. (G1).

By Dansili, sire of smashing 2013 Beverly D. heroine (and champion turf female) Dank, Sarandia descends from the legendary Schwarzgold. At the top of the list of Germany’s great fillies on the racecourse, she became an internationally influential matron. Schwarzgold is the ancestress of Sagace, Slip Anchor, American turf champion Steinlen (the 1989 Arlington Million [G1] winner), and Japanese stars Manhattan Café and Buena Vista.

Sarandia’s human connections are equally of the highest caliber. Gestüt Fährhof has produced the likes of 2001 Arlington Million romper Silvano, Acatenango (Animal Kingdom’s broodmare sire), and Lomitas (Danedream’s sire).

Trainer Peter Schiergen, most associated with Danedream, has had success at Arlington before courtesy of Lucky Speed in the 2015 American St Leger (G3). The yard just celebrated another German Oaks (G1) win with Lacazar this past Sunday.

Schiergen said that Sarandia was here in search of firm turf. Indeed, her poor efforts have come on rain-softened ground, and she’s admirably consistent in the right conditions.

Although Sarandia has never raced over this short a trip, the manner of all five victories over 1 3/8 miles indicates the cutback to 1 3/16 miles is likely to suit her well. She’s a particularly strong traveler who shows early speed, moves on or leaving the turn, and puts the race away in upper stretch. She’s simply carrying her speed the remainder of the 1 3/8-mile distance, not needing it.

Sarandia’s Baden-Baden maiden win second time out at three, in May 2016, established her usual pattern. Taking a strong hold and racing keenly on the lead, she drew away.

 

After a fourth in the Preis Düsseldorf on heavy going, Sarandia rebounded in an allowance over the same course in preparation for the German Oaks. This time, she rallied from just off the pace.