The GP Sprint Championship

$150.000 For Four Year Olds And Upward
6 Furlongs – Dirt
Gulfstream Park – February 21, 2026

In the preview to this race it was noted that Gunga Jung was in great form and he continued to show that form on Saturday at Gulfstream Park wearing down a stubborn Coronado Beach late in the stretch to earn his first stakes win since he won the CA Cup Derby in the second start of his career over two years ago. 

Winner: Gunga Jung (Noblepark/L. Salles) Jung/Stoned Heart (Steel Stardom) He was tucked in behind a snappy speed duel between Coronado Beach and Blue Dragon from the outside. Those two took the field through a first half in 45:12 where Coronado Beach gained a lead at the top of the stretch. Gunga Jung was put down at that point and was asked to catch the leader who put up a gutsy effort but was finally worn down within the sixteenth of a mile. 

Second: Coronado Beach (Family Racing/T. Gaffalione) I Want More/Trouble Free (Southern Style) Took advantage of catching a flyer out of the gate to gain a clear early advantage. Was engaged by Blue Dragon from the outside. That rival briefly gained an advantage and the two battled to the top of the stretch. Blue Dragon gave way at that point, but Coronado Beach was immediately engaged by Gunga Jung who had stalked him on the inside. Fought to hold his lead to the wire but was eventually caught very late. Held off a late charging Distinctly Gold to hold second. 

Third: Distinctly Gold (Night Rider Stables/J.J. Castelano) Crown Gold/Distinction (Zigmund) Was never far back but was content to let others set the pace early. Started to make his bid coming into the stretch but the leaders were holding strong and not giving way. Made his best gains late but could not catch up to the top two. 

Fourth: Blue Dragon (Maletto/J. Bravo) Authorized/Naughty Wolf (Neon Wolf) Was rushed up early to quickly to engage the leader Coronado Beach who had bested everyone at the break. Was able to stick his head in front briefly and battled to the top of the stretch when his early efforts and his wide positioning took its toll on him and he gave way but hung on to fourth to gain the final check on offer. 

Preview Pick: Blue Dragon (Fourth)

With his sixth career win and fourth straight stakes placing Gunga Jung provided Noblepark with their first win in The GP Sprint Championship and raised his career earnings to $407.060. It was the first win in this race for jockey L. Salles as well.

Categories: STAKES ARTICLES, Ungraded