The Bangalore Summer Derby, the most prestigious event of the season, produced a worthy winner in D’ARTAGNAN, who justified the confidence of his supporters with a determined and authoritative performance to capture the coveted blue riband in impressive fashion.
Meticulously prepared by champion trainer Pesi Shroff and ridden with supreme confidence by Yash Narredu, D’ARTAGNAN displayed the qualities of a genuine Classic performer. Settling comfortably during the early stages, he travelled fluently throughout before producing a decisive burst of speed in the straight to secure one of the most coveted prizes of the Bangalore Summer Racing Season.
The winner is owned by Mr. & Mrs. Vijay B. Shirke and Mr. Jay V. Shirke (representing Horse Haven Breeding & Racing Pvt. Ltd.), Mr. & Mrs. Farouq K. Rattonsey, Mr. Sameer F. Rattonsey and Mr. Zaheer F. Rattonsey (representing Hyperion Bloodstock Pvt. Ltd.), Mr. Mehernosh H. Deboo, Mrs. Liane Luthria, Mr. Milan Luthria and Mrs. Daisy K. D. B. Mehta, and Mr. Darashaw Keki Mehta (representing Darashaw Racing & Breeding Pvt. Ltd.).
The Derby was run at a genuine pace from the outset, with the front-runners ensuring that it developed into a true test of stamina. The strong gallop kept the field well stretched and ensured that only horses possessing both speed and staying ability would figure prominently at the finish.
As the runners approached the home turn, several fancied contenders still appeared to hold realistic winning chances. Once balanced for the final run home, D’ARTAGNAN began to improve stylishly in the middle of the turf. Displaying an impressive turn of foot, he swept into contention approaching the final furlong and responded gamely to Yash Narredu’s urgings, forged ahead before maintaining his advantage all the way to the winning post.
The Derby, however, was not without controversy. MARGARETTA, the piping hot favorite and winner’s stablemate who finished a close second, appeared to suffer interference from the winner inside the final furlong at a crucial stage while mounting a serious challenge.
KNOTTY EMPEROR continued his steady progress with another commendable performance, staying on strongly to finish a close third and further enhancing his reputation as a colt with considerable promise over staying distances.
For the victorious connections, it was a memorable Classic triumph and another significant milestone in the distinguished career of D’ARTAGNAN, who once again demonstrated his class, courage and professionalism under pressure. The manner of his victory confirmed his status among the leading three-year-olds in training and augurs well for future assignments at the highest level.
ORIGINAL VEL SPORTING NEWS congratulates the winning owners, trainer Pesi Shroff, jockey Yash Narredu, and all the winning connections on this magnificent Bangalore Summer Derby success and wishes them many more laurels in their future engagements.
