Two rank outsiders in the form of Simply Perfect and Midnight Coup spoilt what would have otherwise been a perfect day for punters at the Calcutta racecourse.

Trainer Bath and his patron Sol Noah had done their homework well and placed a well-planned double with Master Planner in the first race and Midnight Coup in the afternoon’s feature – the Calcutta Champions Sprint Trophy. Unfortunately for them, their master coup came undone in the opening event when the top-weighted Master Planner got beat in the very last stride by the friendless Simply Perfect.

Jockey Aadesh Kumar was the sufferer astride Bath’s ward but he made ample amends when he piloted Midnight Coup to a memorable victory. The Mumbai-based rider egged his mount on when he was strongly challenged by the pair of Forces of Destiny and Steal The Glory.

Fancied runners ruled the roost in the other six races. Sound of cheers showed that she is no mean filly as she made every post a winning one to lift the Champagne Stakes in style and complete a well-deserved hattrick. Jockey B. Prakash had failed miserably on his two mounts prior to this event and must have been happy for the armchair ride. The winner took home a goodly amount of over Rs 13.5 lakh. There was really nothing of note in the rest of the field as she left the field standing after the turning for home.

Prakash’s first mount Flaming Comet seems to have soured after being switched over different trips. In spite of the jockey’s best efforts, she refused to raise a gallop. The Lt General Jameel Mahmood Memorial Trophy was won by Focus who collared The Red Rose and went away for a fluent victory.

His second mount High Regard was simply outclassed by Antonello who made every post a winning one despite conceding weight all round. This got-abroad chestnut is improving with every run and was Bath’s first winner of the day.

The on-money favorite Corfu in the Eastern Command Cup bit the dust unceremoniously. Admaris notched up his fourth win of the season. Though apprentice Kadam tried to win it back in the Stewards Room, his objection held no water with the guardians.

Safari won the PC Lall Memorial Cup easier than verdict. Harish rode her judiciously, without stretching her unnecessarily.

Crown Princess brought the curtain down after staving off a strong challenge from Bright Blossom. Kadam did well to position his mount early from a poor 14th draw. That piece of foresight won him the day.