Capensis, a 4-year-old son of Tapit and winner of the Virginia Derby (G3T), has been sold to Haras La Leyenda in Argentina, where he'll enter stud this year, according to Turf Diario.
Bred by Stonestreet Thoroughbred Holdings out of the Unbridled's Song grade 1 winner Tara's Tango, Capensis was Tapit's most expensive auction yearling in 2020. Eclipse Thoroughbred Partners, Gainesway, Robert La Penta and Winchell Thoroughbreds teamed up to buy the colt for $2 million out of Eaton Sales' consignment at the Keeneland September Yearling Sale. Stonestreet stayed in as a partner and the colt was sent to trainer Todd Pletcher.
Capensis won his debut at 3 by five lengths at Belmont Park going 1 1/16 miles on the turf. In his next start in allowance company, a wide trip throughout and a late lead change left him unplaced. He found redemption in the Virginia Derby that he won driving by two lengths. Unfortunately, Capensis got injured after the Virginia Derby and could not return to racing, according to Aron Wellman, managing partner with Eclipse.
"We very much believed he was a grade 1-caliber horse and unfortunately was not able to realize that potential," Wellman said. "He should have a positive influence on the breed in South America."
Capensis hails from a live family. Tara's Tango is a half sister to grade 1 winner and sire Visionaire; grade 1-placed, grade 3 winner Scarlet Strike; and, grade 3 winners Scarlet Fusion and Madison's Luna.
