On the Nanoli Pune Derby, the views of owners and trainers are varied. However, Versaki seems to have an edge over other contenders.

Vivek Jain: “On sheer performance and form, Versaki and to an extent Cabriolet loom large in this set. Nevertheless, my filly Confiserie showed tremendous finishing effort while winning over the nine-furlong trip, so I am hopeful she can produce an encore and spring a surprise.”

Zavarey Poonawalla: “Versaki is hot and the one that stands out. Classerville has just arrived but he has travelled well. He is a good looker and will impress with his looks for sure. If he runs as well as he looks we might have something to cheer about.”

CD Katrak: “I have Versaki with the best chance and credentials to win the Derby. Let’s wait and watch, I hope all goes well and as expected.”

SS Shah: “Versaki has not done a thing wrong and surely looks the natural first choice and Cabriolet looks a worthy rival. However, I feel that Confiserie is a live danger to all.”

Bezan Chinoy: “Versaki is surely the strongest contender. However, I feel the pace of the race will hold the sway. It will have a big say in the outcome of the race.”

IA Sait: “Versaki has done everything asked of him and done it right, I must add. He looks good and ought to put a good show. The distance should not be a concern.”

P Shroff: “We all have to beat Versaki. Cabriolet is in good shape and I hope all goes well for him.”

Narendra Lagad: “The Nanoli Pune Derby 2009 is a very interesting race. Versaki is unbeaten to date and is in fine fettle and so will be the firm favourite, which is justified. We will try and take him on.”

Rehanullah Khan: “Versaki is the best in the country currently. I think he will only lose if he doesn’t stay the Derby trip in a proper run race.”

H J Antia: “I think the race is between Cabriolet and First Empire.”

Nirad Karanjawalla: “Until recently I had a doubt in my mind about Versaki’s staying prowess. However, I just learnt that from his dam’s side, Versaki inherits great staying power as his dam (Ghassak) has thrown some high quality distance runners. I strongly feel that it will take a lot from the rivals to get the better of Versaki