Grey overcast conditions and a rain soaked track have dampened the spirits of the connections of the 12 contenders that are due to take part in the Poonawalla Mysore Derby. It has been raining intermittently for the last three days in Mysore. In order to save the track for Derby Day, the authorities have postponed Saturday’s race to Wednesday the 31st October. This cautious step has been welcomed by all racing patrons.
Most of the runners expected to start in this 2,000 metres race, have not really performed over this trip. The lone exception is Sweeping Success, which had won the Hyderabad Monsoon Derby on October 2 over an identical distance. In that race Sweeping Success had come from way off the pace, and was getting stronger at the finish. It had also rained the previous day in Hyderabad. Thus, handling the going and the distance for this filly may not be a problem.
Splendid Surprise had been unlucky on more than one occasion. In two big races, his jockeys have gotten into tight pockets in the straight and have been able to finish second after weaving their way through the field. His last win in the Mysore 2000 Guineas was
spectacular, and the connections have reposed their faith in Christopher, who had ridden him that day.
We spoke to many professionals and racing personalities about the Poonawalla Mysore Derby and this is what they had to say.
S Padmanabhan: A very open race. Weather and track conditions will play a big role in the outcome. Retribution is well and I expect him to run a good race.
Ashok Raghavan (Secretary KROA): I expect a thrilling finish. Splendid Surprise, Star Team and Sweeping Success in that order.
R R Byramji: An open race. Sweeping Success and Splendid Surprise are the obvious choice. My horse Vanquish can win if only he reproduces his track work.
Arjun Mangalorkar: Woman on Top. Shiven Surendranath has good fortune in a Derby and I hope his lucky streak continues.
Michael Eshwer: All have to beat Splendid Surprise.
Satish Narredu: A very open race with Splendid Surprise being my first choice. I hope my son Suraj's mount Sprucespringstein upsets.
Samar Singh: Sweeping Success will definitely stay.
Mahesh: I am confident of Splendid Surprise running a big race, He is very well. I am keeping my fingers crossed for good weather.
Lokanath Gowda: Splendid Surprise is my first choice. Woman on Top has the class and I hope she comes out and wins.
S Dominic: I have been watching Star Team on the track. He is working brilliantly. All have to beat him.
Aashish (leading bookmaker): It is a straight fight between Dr Ramaswamy's Star Team and Sweeping Success.
