Those at the Mahalaxmi racecourse could hear the thudding of the hooves loud and clear as tens of thousands across the turf centers and over the internet witnessed one of the most complete decimation of an Indian Classic field. Be Safe (Holy Roman Emperor-Oriental Lady/Hazara Stud), the strapping colt owned by one of the most illustrious owners – Dr MAM Ramaswamy, rocketed to victory bring home the ABV Nucleus Indian 2000 Guineas (Gr1) crown with awesome ease.

His victory was a foregone conclusion as not even the bravest of bookmakers was giving anything to the punters on Be Safe. Malesh Narredu, the proud trainer had turned in Be Safe looking impeccable in the paddock. He looked a picture of confidence and to the eye, towered over the rest. It didn’t take too long for him to translate his good looks to a streaking run of dominance to pack off a bunch of decent three-year-olds with an easy gallop that took one’s breath away.

Jockey Yash Narredu added to the electric atmosphere as he darted away to cut a nippy pace amassing a huge lead within the first furlong. The crowd heaved an alarming hush as Be Safe was too nonchalant in his approach, ambling in the rear with just a couple of horses behind him.  Congressional applied the aggressive tactics settling up with the pace in second, though about five lengths from the leader. Shivalik Storm, led the group following Congressional with Joshua, Zachary and Zodiac huddled together. Be Safe came next with Rule Downunder and Jack Frost close behind.

Speed King led them into the straight, and to his credit, he prolonged his moment in the sun until about 250 meters from home. Congressional had narrowed down the lead to almost nothing. Meanwhile, Suraj Narredu had steered Be Safe taking the turn wide and even though he was still a long way back with just over 400 to go, Suraj held Be Safe, waiting patiently to make his final move. Hearts were pulsating when one threw a glance at the distance left to cover between Be Safe in seventh spot and Congressional going all out and fast approaching the distance post.

Be Safe finally began to accelerate. Opponents fell like nine pins, one by one as Be Safe arrived with a power-packed run. In a blink of an eye Be Safe was right up there and streaking ahead leaving his rivals well behind. Suraj Narredu did not need to go vigorously on his mount. Even with a couple of cylinders on rev mode, Be Safe flashed past them all and amidst loud cheers from the stands, marched on to win handsomely and earn accolades of every individual watching his commanding conquest of the Indian Classic.

“I am immensely pleased with the manner of victory,” said Dr MAM Ramaswamy over telephone to indiarace. “Such a comprehensive victory is truly satisfying. It has been a while now since I travelled, but Be Safe motivates me to try and come to Mumbai to see him run. I might make the journey to Mumbai for the Derby,” said Dr MAM Ramaswamy from Chennai.

“I stick to what I had said before, Be Safe is the one of the best horses I have ridden,” said jockey Suraj Narredu. He is a thorough pro when it comes to racing and his temperament is phenomenal. He has matured very well and right from his campaign in Bangalore, he has been alert and focused once he is in the gates. He is relaxed and settles easily and takes the cue when to shift gears so well. He is a joy to ride and I need not tell you about his turn of foot. I only wanted to ensure that he doesn’t hurry off in the long Mumbai straight. Hence, I was keen to teach him to hold on before setting off. He did exactly what I wanted him to do and quickened when asked to. I am sure this run will bring him on a couple of notches more. Even for this race, I should think he has given off about 80%, he is capable of faring better,” said Suraj Narredu.

“All thanks to the Almighty, this is a tremendous streak of success in the Indian Classics,” said trainer Malesh Narredu. “There was pressure, no doubt, to deliver. Be Safe was running after a longish gap and straight away for the Indian classic. Many felt that easing him into the grove with a prep run was essential. However, I feel each horse is an individual and needs preparation that suits him most. Fortunately, boss (Dr MAM) gave me a free hand. He clearly conveyed that he trusted me to do what is in the best interest of the horse. Those were really encouraging words. I am fortunate to have very sportive owners who give me the freedom to do what I think is best. That is a very big advantage. This motivates me to do everything possible to give them the satisfaction of leading-in their horses which is the ultimate joy for every owner. Seeing them happy is the biggest reward for me”.

His 2000 Guineas win was exceptional and the ease with which he won was not entirely unexpected. Yes, he was far too back in the straight, but I have lot of confidence in Suraj. He has struck a fine partnership with Be Safe, hence I was never in any apprehension even though Suraj was sitting with him for so long. I also have to thank my entire staff who have put in hard work and all this matters when it comes to success. It is indeed a team effort,” said Malesh.

“Be Safe is highly talented with temperament to match. He shows improvement with each run. His Bangalore campaign was very successful and his Derby success, in trying underfoot conditions, makes him special. I am confident that he will improve even further and he is one of the top contenders for the Indian Derby,” said Malesh Narredu.

The uncle-nephew duo played down the hype by stating that Be Safe was a top contender. However, most who saw his performance in the ABV Nucleus Indian 2000 Guineas (Gr1) will vouch that the he would ‘Be-(a)- Safe’ bet to wear the Derby Crown, come February.