Aiyanna, the Mare of Emotions, Delivers Another Unforgettable Day for Buen Ojo

The Santillano Filly, Sebastián Rivera Moirano’s Favorite, Shines Again at Palermo with Thrilling Victory in the Handicap Brilliantly

Aiyanna (left) showcased her class and grit once again… / JUAN I. BOZZELLO

Sebastián Rivera Moirano has long maintained a WhatsApp group for his Stud-Haras Buen Ojo, sharing updates on his horses and his passion for racing with turf friends. Today he wrote: “No one’s beating the girl. One of the happiest days of my life… This race brought me to tears.”

The reason for such heartfelt praise was none other than the remarkable Aiyanna, undoubtedly his favorite mare, who delivered a brilliant victory Thursday at the Hipódromo Argentino de Palermo in the Handicap Brilliantly, the highlight of the card and a tribute to the chestnut who marked the second half of the 1980s.

The 7-year-old Santillano filly continues to impress with her consistency, aided by excellent health, perfectly befitting the “iron horse” label. In her 13th start of the season, she scored her fourth win of 2025, with seconds and thirds in nearly all other outings, aside from one uncharacteristic fifth-place finish.

Ridden by the experienced Facundo Coria and carrying 59 kilos—the second-highest weight in the field—Aiyannarelied on her trademark late surge, adding courage to her many attributes, and edged out Mi Negra Paula (Reflecting, 55) by a head. Bettors were rewarded with a payout of 10.65, over a distance of 1,250 meters on heavy dirt in a time of 1:25.79.

Hi Chasty (Hi Happy, 55) completed the trifecta, 2 1/2 lengths back, just 3/4 of a length ahead of Nakayama (Señor Candy, 54), who had led mid-stretch but lacked the final kick. The favorite and top weight Ataka (Señor Candy, 59 1/2) finished last, more than 30 lengths behind.

Bred by Haras La Pasión and trained by Mofid Hadweh Abuawad, Aiyanna now boasts eight wins from 40 starts, earnings of 38.5 million pesos, and another unforgettable moment for her connections—a long string of smiles that her owner’s opening comment perfectly summarizes.