

SARGA.CO – One name is stirring buzz across Indonesia’s horse racing circles: Romantic Spartan. This filly from Padang Panjang, West Sumatra, has once again captured attention after securing her spot in the final of the IHR Indonesia Derby 2025 (3-year-old category, 2,000 meters). But this is no ordinary qualification—she carries a bold mission: to stop King Argentine from claiming the Triple Crown.
After winning the 2024 Sawahlunto Derby, Romantic Spartan has emerged as a symbol of West Sumatra’s resurgence on the national racing stage. Representing San Marino Stable, she delivered a stunning performance during the preliminary round held at Sultan Agung Horse Racing Track (SSA), Bantul, on Sunday, July 13, 2025.
Heat 1 Drama: Just 0.04 Seconds Behind King Argentine
Racing in Heat 1, Romantic Spartan clocked in at 2 minutes 20.47 seconds—a mere 0.04 seconds behind the heavy favorite, King Argentine (2.20.43), the leading contender for the Triple Crown.
Top times in Heat 1:
King Argentine – 2:20.43
Padagi NSL – 2:20.45
Romantic Spartan – 2:20.47
Manik Siwa – 2:20.99
Romeo Berjaya – 2:21.57
Merlin Gray – 2:24.42
Although she finished third in her heat, Romantic Spartan’s performance was widely viewed as the most impressive, coming from Sumatra, a region often overlooked in national racing conversations, and holding her own against contenders from Java and Kalimantan.
A West Sumatran Mission on the National Stage
With the final just days away, Romantic Spartan now stands as a serious threat to King Argentine, who has already claimed the first two legs of the Triple Crown and is eyeing the ultimate title.
Should Romantic Spartan overtake the reigning champion at SSA Bantul, it would end his Triple Crown dream—and mark the filly from the west as a history-making force that toppled a titan.
More than just a fast horse, Romantic Spartan now symbolizes regional pride and determination—a horse from Padang Panjang daring to challenge the traditional strongholds of national racing.
Will Romantic Spartan deliver a shock upset in the final? Or will King Argentine remain unshaken at the top?
All eyes will turn to SSA Bantul on July 27, 2025, where one of the fiercest showdowns of the season will decide who truly rules the track
Marking the national energy company’s commitment to supporting the growth of equestrian sports in the country.
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