Ill luck of Just Like A Woman continued to keep her away from success for the third consecutive time. She conceded a little over a length defeat at the hands of Zabardast in the Kanhaiyalal Shrama and Company Cup at the Delhi races on Tuesday. Western disturbances that brought enveloping fog for a couple of days prior to the racing at the National Capital race course also made it chilly on the first day of the winter season. In continuation of the ongoing calendar, the day was filled with as usual six events. Interestingly, saddler Alim Khan was the lone professional to earn a double. Form was of utmost importance for the six-year-old mare Just Like A Woman. Adjudged favourite once again with an advantageous handicap, she was alighted to the task but a lack of skill came her way. Content to run in the fifth place till top of the curve, she waited for an opportunity for a clear passage but when she got the chance the event was already in the safe keeping of Zabardast, who was in receipt of eight kilos against the runner-up. Many raised eyebrows about the handling of Riazuddin, who was permitted to use the whip, but one should also consider the past performances of the mare. Even though she had the class, she tasted her lone victory only during the previous season. Tuesday’s performance might once again raise hope among her followers. Zabardast, who was also in hunt for victory, was the only horse in the field of seven whose record was an indication itself for the title. However, Sameer Khan-ridden colt had to go through the objection lodged by Gajendra Singh Shekhawat (Ashwa Paddma finishing third) for whipping on his hands in the crucial stages. The opening event, the upper division of the Secret Societ Plate, was a cakewalk for Confidential Lady under Nazim. Asma, who brought anxiety for a moment for the fancied mare, should make amends. The lower division of the plate was at the mercy of Bhoomi Putra, who scored despite hanging-in. Blazing Arrow, who was supported by the connections, failed to live up to the expectations. The aged gelding should stand in the winning block before bidding adieu. Real Strong helped Alim to lead him in the Russian Romance Plate. Ace jockey Rajinder had an arm-chair riding on the gelding, making every post a winning one in the seven-furlong event. Ouef Toba completed an encore in the similar fashion in the Hit of The Week Plate. Ready To Win was the other triumphant to follow suit of the duo. The run of Lightning Bolt was eye-catching.