Meme Jo scores first stakes in Bucharest

Meme Jo has long been a useful sprinter in Texas. Now, he’s a stakes winner. Meme Jo added the title to his credentials Saturday night, when he darted home by 1 3/4 lengths over the 4-5 favorite Solar Charge in the $50,000 Bucharest at Sam Houston Race Park. It was another 1 1/4 lengths back in third to Queenland.

Meme Jo ($14.40) chased the pace set by Aces N Jacks, who was clear through an opening quarter in 21.77 seconds in the five-furlong turf race for Texas-breds. Aces N Jacks continued to lead through a half-mile in 45.61 before the eventual winner overtook him in the stretch and went on to cover the distance on firm ground in 57.67.

“We laid right behind Aces N Jacks and hoped we had something left for the finish,” said George R. Bryant, who trains Meme Jo. “Our horse ran a monster race. He’s a hard-knocker, runs good on turf or dirt. He just gives it all he has every time.”

Iram Diego was aboard the winner for owner George A. Bryant.

Meme Jo has now won 8 of 25 starts and $149,089.