Temple City’s El Potente scores repeat win in Thunder Road S. (G3)
February 8, 2026
El Potente, who won the 2025 Thunder Road S. (G3) by three lengths, bettered that performance Saturday at Santa Anita Park when the veteran turf performer tallied a 3 ¾-length win in front-running style.
Now 7, El Potente showed his eagerness to run in what was his 2026 debut. Sent to the front right out of the gate by jockey Hector Berrios, El Potente led Namaron (GER) by a half-length after a half-mile of :46.67. He started to widen his lead with three furlongs to go, and once he turned for home, powered away from the field with ease to stop the clock in 1:33.49 for the mile on the firm turf.
“I think he is just a horse naturally that has gotten better as he’s gotten older,” said winning trainer Dan Blacker. “We are just fortunate enough that he’s super talented. It’s a credit to Mike (Way) the owner. He has been patient and we have given the horse time when he’s asked for it. He is thriving right now. He’s just a cool horse.”
El Potente has raced 17 times, with a record of 7-2-3, and has earned $344,796. The dark bay was bred in Florida by Charmsil LLC.
El Potente is one of 33 stakes winners and 15 graded stakes winners for Temple City, who is standing this year for $5,000 S&N.