Argentine jockey Nico Valle wins Gran Premio de Madrid for third straight year

Argentine jockey Nico Valle achieved a remarkable third consecutive victory at the Gran Premio de Madrid, the premier race held at the Hipódromo de La Zarzuela. This year, Valle rode 'Coetzee,' a horse recently acquired from France for the Alex y Sofía stable and trained by Guillermo Arizkorreta.

Valle expressed his elation, stating, "I have no words." He noted that the race had been a primary objective, even with the previous winner, 'War of Dance,' having moved on to breeding. Valle, who has been competing in Spain since 2019, is currently ranked sixth nationally in jockey standings.

The 2,500-meter race saw 'Coetzee' make a late surge in the final stretch, narrowly defeating 'Sirjan' by half a body length. 'Kildare Legend' finished third. The victory secured 50,000 euros for the Alex y Sofía stable, largely offsetting the horse's acquisition cost.

The event also featured other notable races, including the Martorell for two-year-old colts and the Baldoria for mares. 'Belisa Bay' won the Martorell with jockey Ricardo Sousa, while 'Annie’s Song' surprised in the Baldoria under jockey Denissa Sikorová.