In Tribute to Chupino, Galitza Aims for Another Major Victory

he Rubio B. mare headlines the Hándicap Juan Carlos Noriega, where she’ll once again square off with Córdoba-based Costa Dark

Galitza Looks to Repeat Her Court Harwell Hándicap Heroics / HAPSA

Friday’s stakes doubleheader at Hipódromo Argentino de Palermo will wrap up with the Hándicap Juan Carlos Noriega, a well-deserved tribute to the beloved “Chupino,” who remains as relevant as ever—something he underscored last weekend with a brilliant G1 Gran Premio de Honor victory aboard Crazy Talent (Equal Talent).

Though the Córdoba native won’t be in the saddle this time, Noriega is expected to be on hand for the trophy presentation in the 1600-meter dirt contest, which is open to mares five years old and up.

The field of seven appears evenly matched, led by Galitza (Bodemeister, 57.5kg), who will try to reproduce her latest effort under nearly identical conditions. In that outing, she edged out fellow contender Costa Dark (In the Dark, 59kg) by three-quarters of a length in the Hándicap Court Harwell. The La Pasión/Rubio B. homebred will again face the Córdoba-based mare, though this time the weight spread between the two has narrowed to just 1.5 kilos—half of what it was a month ago—making for a more balanced showdown.

A possible upset could come from the chestnut Priola (South Kissing, 53.5kg), who gets in light and exits the best effort of her career. She finished second, beaten three lengths by G2 winner Poker Mommy (Daddy Long Legs) in the 1800-meter Hándicap Elías Antúnez, proving she belongs in this company.

With Francisco Leandro aboard, Noche Plateada (In the Dark, 59kg) is another contender likely to be closing late. She scored in similar style 35 days ago over San Isidro’s inner track, rallying past Manicura Rusa (Zensational) to win the Hándicap Stiletto by 1 1/2 lengths.

Another Córdoba representative, Guapa Mireya (Endorsement, 54.5kg), disappointed in that same race, finishing far back despite high expectations. Still, she has always shown an affinity for Palermo, and a rebound performance wouldn’t be out of the question.

Rounding out the small field are Alma Vasca (Alma de Acero, 54kg) and Wish You More (Winning Prize, 50.5kg).