Trainer Prasanna Kumar’s well-prepared filly MOUNTAIN JEWEL, ridden to perfection by S. Antony Raj, stamped her class and staying prowess by winning the Race2win Foundation Hyderabad Deccan Derby (Gr.1) — the crowning event of the Hyderabad Monsoon Season 2025 — held on Sunday, October 5 at Malakpet. The winner is owned by Mr. Rajendran representing Rapar’s Galloping Stars LLP & Mr. K. Kaliyaperumal, who have every reason to feel proud of their filly’s magnificent triumph in one of the most coveted Classics on the Indian racing calendar.Bred at the Usha Stud Farm, Mountain Jewel is a daughter of Deauville out of Kanchenjunga, a pedigree that beautifully combines stamina with a decisive burst of acceleration — both of which were on brilliant display in her Derby-winning performance.When the starter sent them on their mile-and-a-quarter journey, Mountain Jewel was deliberately held back by jockey Antony Raj, who chose to bide his time at the rear of the nine-horse field. Up ahead, the early pace was strong, with the front-runners setting searching fractions in an attempt to stretch out the field and draw the sting from the closers.Antony Raj, displaying immense patience and tactical brilliance, began to gradually improve his position from the 600-metre marker. By the time the field swung into the straight, Mountain Jewel had been switched out for a clear run and was set alight on the wide outside. Her acceleration in the final furlongs was simply breathtaking — she devoured ground with giant strides, drawing alongside Red Bishop about 350 metres from home. The favourite fought back bravely, but Mountain Jewel, showing great determination and heart, kept her neck in front all the way past the winning post to secure a thrilling victory.The filly’s performance not only underlined her class and temperament but also reinforced trainer Prasanna Kumar’s growing stature as a Classic conditioner capable of planning and executing a flawless campaign. His decision to bring Mountain Jewel fresh into the Derby and rely on her inherent stamina proved a masterstroke.For Antony Raj, it was yet another feather in his cap — his composed handling and perfectly timed finish showcased his growing maturity and confidence in high-pressure situations.
