Despacito Eyes 20th Career Victory in the Eduardo Jara Stakes

The son of Sabayón brings a three-race winning streak into the contest and will look to extend it further—this time under a crushing 64-kilo impost

Despacito is having a great moment / JUAN I. BOZZELLO

Midweek programs at San Isidro Racecourse are, more often than not, a tough sell from a quality standpoint—and even more so when prize money enters the conversation. For years now, the northern colossus has resembled a local version of Fonner Park, bunching together the weakest races of the week. This afternoon’s card will be no exception.

Amid a sea of modest contests and routine spots for older, lower-level runners, the Eduardo Jara Stakes (1100m, dirt) stands out as the feature. A handicap open to 3-year-olds and up, it gains relevance largely thanks to the presence of Despacito, whose name alone injects a welcome sense of anticipation.

The Pampeano has long since earned national hero status, boasting a résumé that includes 19 victories—most of them at stakes level—and arriving here on a three-race winning streak, achieved both on the track and in the stewards’ room. On merit, he captured the Handicap Court Harwell and the Listed Lord At War Stakes, and later inherited the Asociación Argentina de Fomento Equino (L) following the disqualification of Bluclette Rim (Remote) due to a doping infraction.

Representing the colors of Darío and Ignacio Periga, Despacito carried 61 kilos in his latest appearance—a demanding assignment that now rises to a hefty 64, virtually the equivalent of racing under two jockeys. Given his résumé, however, such impost is only logical, and it sets the stage for yet another stern test for the son of Sabayón.

On form, his rivals would need a significant step forward to turn the tables, but the weight concessions they receive keep hopes alive. Among them is Viejo Cuchara (Il Campione, 53.5 kg), racing for Stud Tinta Roja, who will seek revenge after finishing 3 1/2 lengths behind the favorite in the Lord At War and also trailing him in the Fomento Equino.

Sea (Daddy Long Legs, 53 kg) has long hinted at greater potential, though his recent form has been somewhat inconsistent. Still, he showed signs of improvement last time out when finishing fourth behind The Beast Party (The Great Day).

From the rail, Bingo Song (Alcindor, 57.5 kg) continues to defy age as he approaches his eighth birthday, though inconsistency remains a concern. Flying to the Sky (Señor Candy, 56.5 kg) is expected to unleash a late run from off the pace, while Naimabad (Il Campione, 52 kg) takes on the males carrying a light impost.