The story of Canonero II, the unfit Venezuelan champion, was as unlikely a triumph as that of Black Gold being foaled in an Irishman owner's dream from his coveted mare Useeit and Black Toney, of the preeminent Kentucky stable of Colonel E.R. Bradley.
While Black Gold was already a popular, accomplished winner before his Kentucky Derby entry in 1924, the Venezuelan colt Canonero II came to the 1971 American Classic unknown. He had a crooked right foreleg and a split right hoof, deformities that plagued him throughout his racing career.
He had something else: a spirit, a winning, try at all costs attitude, and people around him who believed in his ability despite the obvious physical problems.
Arias Connects With Canonero
Juan Arias, a Caracus based trainer, developed a fondness for the colt before the Kentucky Derby was ever mentioned. Arias, who habitually talked to Canonero as though the equine were a cherished son, knew the colt's health was in question. Canonero's Derby victory, however, was cause for elevated hope.
Two weeks after his Derby win, Canonero II made history by gobbling up the Preakness Stakes field. Again, he beat Eastern Fleet, Jim French, and Bold Reason.
Now he had the world's complete attention. All of Venezuela was in celebration. The colt's owner, Pedro Baptista, of course, wanted the Triple Crown championship. It would be the first since Citation's in 1948.
The Belmont Stakes, the final leg of the Triple Crown, proved too much of a challenge. Game, but weary, Canonero II finished the Belmont behind Jim French (2nd), and Bold Reason (3rd). Longshot Pass Catcher won.
Weary Canonero Sold
Baptista sold the fatigued Canonero II to Robert Kleberg for $1.5 million. Kleberg owned King Ranch in Texas. Canonero's new trainer was William J. "Buddy" Hirsch. Tired and still not cured of his physical shortcomings, the colt lost his first seven races in 1972.
Last Glory for Canonero in 1972
A last flash of glory remained, however. With Gustavo Avila again aboard the Venezuelan warrior, the contingent went to the Stymie Handicap at Belmont Park in September. Canonero would face 1972's Derby and Belmont Stakes champion, Riva Ridge.
The old champ caught fire, wheeling into a burst of speed that still shocked, drew even with Riva Ridge at the far turn, and ran Secretariat's stablemate ragged, winning by five lengths. Moreover, he broke the track record with his 1:46-1/5 time for the 1-1/8 miles distance.
After a final race in which he finished second, Canonero II was retired to stud. Unable to shine in his new duties, he was returned to Venezuela in February, 1981 to stand at Haras Tamanaco. His stakes son El Tejano was his only success.
Canonero's Last Run
On November 11, the Derby and Preakness champion was found dead in his stall. The heart that had carried him to great victories at last had failed him.
His amazing and unlikely heroics will always be worth retelling.
BarbaraAnne Helberg - Barbara Anne Helberg, Supporter of Better Lives for Animals and Clean, Spirited, Competitive Sports
