The Villoo C. Poonawalla Indian Oaks (Gr. 1), often referred as ‘Ladies Derby’, will be staged at the Mahalaxmi Race course on January 11 (Saturday). The Grade 1 event for four-year-old fillies, to be run over 2,400m, and offers a prize purse of ₹5 million.
Adding to the excitement of the day are two more graded races — Ramniwas Ramnarain Ruia Gold Cup and the Gool S. Poonawalla Million for juveniles. There will be free entry for ladies along with food, beverages and merchandise stalls at the Members enclosure.
Among the ten fillies set to compete in the Indian Oaks, trainer Pesi Shroff’s Psychic Star, who won the Indian 1000 Guineas and finished fourth in the Indian 2000 Guineas against colts, appears to be prime in condition and should score over her rivals.
Regina Memorabilis, from Imtiaz Sait’s stable, showed her potential with a victory over 2,000 metres in Pune. Although she struggled in the Indian 1000 Guineas, her impressive movement during morning trials indicates she could pose a serious threat. La Dolce Vita, mentored by trainer Bezan Chenoy, which won over 2,000m trip in her last start, may have a say at the finish.
With only four contestants in the Ramniwas Ramnarain Gold Cup, Pesi Shroff’s trainee colt Odysseus, a winner of two races, is in fine fettle and should win. Shambala, schooled by Nazzak Chenoy, who ran second in the Indian 2000 Guineas, looks well prepared and may beat his rivals.
Among the nine Juveniles in the fray for the Gool S. Poonawalla Million, Adhirajsingh Jodha’s filly Elusive Art, who won impressively in her debut at Mumbai, should fight for honours. Malesh Narredu-trained Rosabelle won in her last start at Pune may fight for glory.
Published – January 08, 2025 07:06 pm IST
