Payucano stands out in the Handicap Haras Dilú

At the peak of his campaign, the son of Mask faces a tough assignment at La Plata

Payucano winning the Especial Mangangá at La Plata / HLP

For many years, Haras Dilú was a benchmark of Argentine racing, fielding a powerful stable that competed and won almost daily. Still active today, albeit on a smaller scale, Néstor Otero’s operation will receive its tribute this Tuesday with a handicap run over 1,200 meters and open to horses aged four and up with three or more career victories.

Carrying a top weight of 59 kilos, Payucano (Mask) shapes up as the one to beat following a string of solid performances, including a victory in the Especial Mangangá and several notable placings, most recently a third behind Silencio Dramático (Grand Reward) in the Handicap Haras La Biznaga.

Special attention must be paid to Ridge Prince (Strategic Prince, 57), who delivered a strong performance in Palermo. Well in at the weights, he finished a close second, two lengths behind Bienhechor (Hurricane Cat) in the Handicap Sideral, having previously been third to Es Aristocrático (Angiolo) when that rival set a track-record time in the Especial Flag Nine.

After a 230-day layoff, Amigazo Mak (Maktub, 58) returns to action. He was last seen finishing fourth to Hit Rouge(Hit It a Bomb) in the Lord At War (L) at San Isidro. A seasoned performer, if fully fit, he could have plenty to say.

Coming off the condition races, Redentor Scat (Knockout, 53 1/2) arrives in good form and will receive considerable weight from all the top contenders. Also worth noting is the late-form Por Ahí (Strategic Prince, 53 1/2), who at seven is showing his best version and cannot be overlooked.