Oriental Boy, Popova, and a Treble for the Ever-Reliable Facundo Coria

The colt showed real grit to notch his third straight victory, while the filly returned from a layoff in winning style—capped by yet another standout performance from jockey Facundo Coria, a model of consistency in the saddle

Popova enjoyed a perfect comeback and now looks poised to take another step forward / JUAN I. BOZZELLO

A steady downpour marked the atmosphere Monday at the Hipódromo Argentino de Palermo, but it didn’t rain on Facundo Coria’s parade. The veteran jockey enjoyed a standout afternoon, booting home three winners, including Despacito (Sabayón) in the feature and a pair of notable condition runners in Oriental Boy and Popova.

In a program light on overall depth but buoyed by an impressive handle of AR$443,102,391—averaging over AR$40 million per race—Oriental Boy stood out in open company, while Popova marked a sparkling return after nearly eight months away from the races.

A product of Haras Abolengo, Oriental Boy (Cosmic Trigger–Reprisa, by Ride the Rails) proved game over 1400 meters in the Premio Cayumanque, the 4-year-old colt keeping a narrow advantage throughout under Osvaldo Alderete to fend off Louis CK (Daddy Long Legs) by half a length. Favored Exultant (Vagabundo Inc) checked in third, 3/4 of a length behind, with the clock stopping in 1:23.93.

Later in the day, it was Popova’s turn to shine in the Premio Propicio over 1200 meters. Making her first start since finishing ninth in the G1 Polla de Potrancas, the daughter of Holy Boss and Perfect Melody (Lizard Island), bred by Haras La Leyenda, justified her favoritism with a stylish effort. Ranged up at the 200-meter mark, she held off Kissing Chupetina (South Kissing) by half a length in 1:11.51, securing her second career win from just five outings.

Runner-up in the G3 Manuel J. Güiraldes earlier in the season behind Filippiada (Il Mercato), Popova is trained by Hugo Sanagua for Stud El Basti, and now appears ready to build upon her reappearance effort.

Coria's triple began aboard Ricotera Johan (Curioso Johan) and peaked with Despacito’s victory in the Handicap Aniversario de la Inauguración del Hipódromo Argentino de Palermo, further cementing the Córdoba native’s reputation as one of the most consistent riders in the local colony. With 20 wins already at Palermo this season and a near 15% strike rate, Coria continues to be a go-to name when results matter.