El Condor Pasa

El Condor Pasa — The Pioneer Who Carried Japan’s Hopes to Europe

At the end of the 20th century, when Japanese racehorses rarely ventured overseas, one colt crossed the seas with the weight of a nation's hopes on his back. His name was El Condor Pasa. With noble bloodlines, unmatched versatility, and a courageous spirit, he paved the way for the global recognition of Japanese racing. This is the story of a horse who came close to conquering Europe—and whose legend still echoes through the sport.

Pedigree: Born to Compete on the World Stage

Miesque, Thong, and Global Bloodlines

El Condor Pasa was born in 1995 in the United States. His sire was Kingmambo, whose dam was the legendary Miesque, a ten-time Grade 1 winner known for her brilliance on both sides of the Atlantic.

On his dam's side, El Condor Pasa descended from Sadler’s Gal, a modest race mare with no wins in eight starts, but of great value due to her connection to the influential broodmare Thong. In fact, Thong appeared three times in El Condor Pasa’s pedigree—a calculated inbreeding choice designed to enhance his potential. His owner had clearly envisioned a future beyond Japan.

Early Career in Japan

A Cautious Start on Dirt

El Condor Pasa debuted in November 1997, not on turf but on dirt—a surface chosen to protect his still-developing legs. Despite a slow start, he surged from behind and won convincingly. His second start followed a similar pattern: another dirt win, this time by nine lengths.

First Steps Toward Greatness

In early 1998, he entered the Kyodo News Cup, which was switched to dirt due to snow. He won again with ease. But his true test came in April: his first turf race, the New Zealand Trophy (G2). Though uncertain at first, El Condor Pasa adapted quickly and won again.

Next came the NHK Mile Cup (G1). Among a field of undefeated contenders, he surged to the front and captured his first Grade 1 title—remaining undefeated himself.

From Mile Champion to Long-Distance Contender

A Bold Target: The Japan Cup

After a summer rest, El Condor Pasa aimed for the Japan Cup (G1), held over 2400 meters—double the distance of his previous races. His prep race, the Mainichi Okan (G2), was legendary. He faced both Grass Wonder and the electrifying Silence Suzuka.

Despite running well, he couldn’t catch Silence Suzuka, who led at an extraordinary pace. Still, it was a performance that marked El Condor Pasa as a serious contender.

Defying Expectations in the Japan Cup

In November, he lined up against Japan’s best: Special Week, the year’s Derby winner, and Air Groove, a champion mare. It was his first race at 2400 meters.

Despite his inexperience, El Condor Pasa led the race with tactical precision and held off his challengers to win by 2.5 lengths. He had proven himself not only a miler but a true middle-distance horse.

Venturing to Europe

Training in France

In 1999, El Condor Pasa traveled to France with a singular goal: winning the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe. He adapted slowly to the European environment, building muscle and learning to handle the heavier turf.

Facing Europe’s Elite

• Prix d’Ispahan (G1) – 2nd place behind Croco Rouge
• Grand Prix de Saint-Cloud (G1) – Defeated a strong field including Tiger Hill
• Prix Foy (G2) – Won over Longchamp, beating Croco Rouge and Borgia

The 1999 Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe

The Arc was held under heavy, rain-softened turf. The pacemaker faltered, and El Condor Pasa took the lead. For much of the stretch, he held off all challengers—until Montjeu, a future legend, surged from behind and edged past him at the finish.

Yet, the French media hailed them both, declaring:

“There were two champions.”

Legacy at Home

Champion of the Year

Despite not racing in Japan in 1999, El Condor Pasa was named Japan’s Horse of the Year, ahead of Special Week and Grass Wonder. His second-place finish in the Arc proved to the world—and to Japan—that Japanese racehorses could compete at the highest level.

A Short but Impactful Stud Career

Sadly, El Condor Pasa passed away at just seven years old due to volvulus. But his legacy lives on through his progeny:

• Song of Wind – Winner of the Kikuka-sho (Japanese St. Leger)
• Vermilion – Nine-time G1 winner on dirt
• Alondight – Winner of the Japan Cup Dirt

He also left a lasting mark as a broodmare sire, influencing future generations.

Conclusion

El Condor Pasa’s career was brief, but its impact was seismic. He shattered barriers, defied expectations, and brought international respect to Japanese racing. His journey—from dirt tracks in Japan to the grand stage of the Arc—remains a defining chapter in racing history.

He was, and remains, a symbol of courage, intelligence, and ambition.