Bacio the Horse Surpasses Expectations in Recent Race, Owner Expresses Pride
Bacio, a Thoroughbred racehorse trained by John Sadler and owned by Bob Baffert, has drawn attention for his rapid improvement, with his owner stating, “He’s a literal rocket and seems to get faster each race.” According to Equibase, Bacio finished first in his most recent race at Del Mar on August 12, 2023, covering six furlongs in 1:09.48, a time that outpaced his previous best by 0.8 seconds.
What Is Bacio’s Racing Background?
Bacio, a 2019-born son of Curlin, made his debut in 2021 and has since competed in 12 races, earning three wins and five top-three finishes. His performance in the $100,000 San Marcos Stakes in March 2023, where he finished second by a neck, marked a turning point. “He’s shown tremendous consistency, and his last run was his best yet,” said Sadler, per the *Los Angeles Times*.
How Has Bacio Improved Over Time?
Bacio’s times have steadily decreased over his career. In his first five starts, he averaged 1:11.20 for six furlongs. By 2023, his average dropped to 1:10.15, with his August 12 victory being his fastest. “He’s peaking at the right time,” said Baffert, who noted the horse’s increased stamina. “Bacio has the kind of late speed that makes him dangerous in any race.”
What Are the Implications of Bacio’s Performance?
Bacio’s recent success has positioned him as a contender for the 2023 Del Mar Handicap, a Grade II race scheduled for September 2. His owner, who purchased a share in the horse through a syndication, described the investment as “one of the best decisions I’ve made.” Analysts at *Bloodhorse* note that Bacio’s improvement aligns with trends in modern racing, where horses often reach peak performance later in their careers.
What’s Next for Bacio?
Baffert has not yet confirmed Bacio’s next start, but the horse is expected to compete in the $200,000 Hollywood Sprint Championship in October. If he continues his upward trajectory, Bacio could challenge for a stakes win, adding to his reputation as a “rocket” on the track. “He’s got the heart of a champion,” said jockey Flavien Prat, who rode Bacio in his recent victory. “You can feel it every time he runs.”