Fortino took command with just over a furlong to run on his way to posting a two-and-a-quarter length victory in the G1 El Derby at Valparaiso Sporting Club on Sunday, 5 February.
The race marked the third G1 victory for the three-year-old son of Midshipman, who now boasts an impressive record of seven wins and four placings in 11 career starts.
Breaking sharply from post 8 in the field of 16 runners, Fortino raced a bit keenly in third through the early stages of the 12-furlong Classic. Finally settling into a comfortable stride under jockey Oscar Ulloa, Fortino eased back off the pace in fifth as the filly, Annie, led the field down the backstretch.
Annie continued to lead going into the far turn as Fortino off the rail to the outside for a clear shot at the leader. At the top of the lane, Annie threw in the towel and was overtaken by Mi Elegido, with Netinna and Fortino hot on his heels. Fortino then hit another gear, sweeping past Mi Elegido to take the lead with over a furlong to go.
He quickly put the race to bed, pulling away in the stretch to win by just over two lengths. Lukka closed late to take second, with Mama Lili getting up for third.
Fortino was bred in Chile by his owner, Haras Don Alberto, and is out of Farreras, a winning daughter of Fusaichi Pegasus. Farreras is out of the unraced mare Fratellina, who has also produced the Stakes-placed colt, Facundo H (also by Midshipman).
Midshipman was the sire of 18 Stakes horses in 2022, including Fun and Feisty, winner of the G3 Pocahontas Stakes at Churchill Downs. The stallion was also represented by Stakes winners Royal Ship (G2 San Diego) and the juvenile Top Recruit in 2022.
Midshipman is standing the 2023 season at Jonabell Farm for $20,000, stands and nurses.
