Pesi Shroff-trained D’Artagnan produced a scintillating performance under an inspired ride from young jockey G. Vivek to capture the prestigious Zavaray S. Poonawalla Colts Championship Stakes (Grade 1), the second classic of the Bangalore Summer Season.
The handsome colt, representing the distinguished ownership of Horse Haven Breeding & Racing Private Limited (Mr. & Mrs. Vijay B. Shirke and Mr. Jay V. Shirke), Hyperion Bloodstock Pvt. Ltd. (Mr. & Mrs. Farouq K. Rattonsey, Mr. Sameer F. Rattonsey and Mr. Zaheer F. Rattonsey), along with Mr. Mehernosh H. Deboo and Mrs. Liane Luthria, justified the confidence reposed in him with a commanding display of class and determination.
As the field settled down, D’Artagnan was content to race in fifth position while his stablemate Zayyan dictated the pace up front. G. Vivek bided his time patiently before angling the colt out for a clear run on entering the straight. Once asked for an effort, D’Artagnan responded in emphatic fashion, quickening impressively to collar Stud Poker inside the final furlong and then drawing away to score with authority.
Stud Poker, despite his relative lack of experience, ran a gallant race and fought on resolutely but was unable to match the winner’s powerful finishing burst, eventually settling for the runner-up berth.
Knotty Emperor, who raced prominently throughout, travelled well and briefly threatened approaching the straight, but could not sustain his challenge and finished third. The long-time leader Zayyan, after setting the pace for much of the journey, weakened in the closing stages to finish fourth.
This outstanding victory further underlines D’Artagnan’s immense potential and adds yet another notable classic success to the illustrious record of trainer Pesi Shroff.
ORIGINAL VEL SPORTING NEWS
congratulates the winning owners, trainer, jockey and all connected with D’Artagnan on this splendid triumph and wishes them continued success in the forthcoming classics and major racing engagements.
