Richard Hughes proved that it is possible to stop 25,000 hearts from beating normally, all at the same juncture. He did it for about 10 seconds as he sent Jacqueline shooting through a narrow gap between Becket and the inner rails. Jacqueline was the overwhelming favourite and her supporters watched with gaping mouths that would have been broader than the gap Jacqueline was asked to take! Jacqueline was right up to the task. The filly showed that she is blessed with a fantastic temperament to match her galloping talent.

When confronted with the toughest challenge, Jacqueline produced her best to squeeze past Becket in the dying moments of the race bringing the mammoth crowd alive with a dream finish. In a fast run race, Becket ensured that he stayed within striking distance and nearing the final turn advanced with alacrity to be prominent when entering the straight. Jacqueline was still biding her time but not with as much comfort as she was used to in the previous three Classics. The human side of Richards would have certainly been alarmed, when Becket pulled away to construct a handy lead past the final 400.

Becket was brilliant in his surge for glory. He bounded forward and kept going. Jacqueline still had places to cover and she was getting past the other contenders without undue trouble. However, for the first time this season, Jacqueline was urged and Richard was seen going all out long before he might have expected to do so while planning his strategy before the race. Into the final furlong, Becket was still ahead and for the huge number of her supporters, the lead may have looked awfully long. But not for the game daughter of King Charlemagne and Talita Kumi. In what was obviously an all-out assault, Richard Hughes, driven by instinct and determination, made a move that must have stopped many a heart.

Jacqueline, who had moved to just one behind Becket, was asked to take the narrowest of gaps on the inner railing, a move few jockeys would have dared to venture at such a crucial juncture. The make-it-or-break-it move was spot on, on hindsight, as Jacqueline, like a true champion, produced that little extra effort that sets champions apart. Jacqueline shot through the gap and got past the speeding Becket and the deafening roar from the crowd echoed the magic spell the Indian Derby casts on the masses and the city.

It took a record breaking effort to wear the McDowell Signature Indian Derby Crown. Jacqueline beat last-year winner Antonios’ record by .04 second clocking a new record time of 2:28.54. Native Knight ran a commendable third ahead of Onassis. Jacqueline emerged the ‘Queen of the Turf’ and in what a splendid fashion. Becket was gallant in defeat and one’s heart went out to the stupendous effort Becket produced in his biggest assignment yet. “Jacqueline is a true Champion. She proved she is the best in the business today. She was in sync at all times and did what I wanted her to do as if she was expecting my commands. She knew pretty well what was required and this is a rare quality in her,” Richard Hughes told indiarace, still atop the empress, waiting for the connections to join him for the lead-in.

Dr Vijay Mallya, Chairman, UB Group was all smiles as he handed over the attractive trophies to the winning team. He greeted Pesi Shroff with an affectionate hug and the joy was writ large on his face. “The McDowell Signature Indian Derby is a true test for speed and stamina. The race springs up a new champion each year. Jacqueline is undoubtedly a Champion filly. I have had my winning moments and I know what it feels like to win the most sought after race in the country.

The McDowell brand has been associated with the sponsorship of this race for over a quarter of a century now and we will do so in future as well. It is our endeavour to present the Indian Derby in the best possible manner and make it a truly enjoyable event befitting the richest and most prestigious race in India.” Mr Vivek Jain, Chairman RWITC, was beaming with joy over the conduct of the race and the response from the crowd.

“I Thank Dr Mallya for his generous contribution and making the Signature Indian Derby what it is today. It has grown in popularity each year and the crowd and betting has risen considerably to higher levels. It has been a great day I am sure the crowd has had an enjoyable time too. Jacqueline is the star who won a million hearts along with the McDowell Signature Indian Derby,” he concluded. “I wouldn’t miss this race for anything in the world,” said a jubilant Vijay Shirke. “Jacqueline has taken my moments of glee to the highest level. I can’t shower enough praise for the joy she has brought to all of us. Pesi Shroff and Richard Hughes have been a perfect combination and I must thank them for providing me so much to celebrate. Jacqueline has occupied a special place in my heart and given me my most memorable moments as a race horse owner,” said Mr Shirke, barely able to hold back his emotions.

Mr Khushroo Dhunjibhoy was a lot more in control as he heaped praise on all concerned. “Pesi has proved that he is the best and full credit to him for keeping the filly in top shape through the season. Richard rode with aplomb and you saw for yourself how he changed tactics as per the need of the race. He rode in contrasting styles, precisely as the situation demanded. No other jockey could have done what Richard did, he was truly at his best with Jacqueline. Becket certainly surprised me and ran an exceptional race. I am impressed with the way Becket ran too and I extend my compliments to the Becket team as well. This year’s McDowell Signature Derby was simply a thrilling one and the result couldn’t have been better for us.” Mr Bergis Desai never looked happier.

“This is a defining moment for me and Jacqueline is my heroine. It was a hard-fought race and the closing moments are itched in my memory forever. The excitement was fever pitch and I have rarely felt such high exhilarating moments in my entire experience with horse racing. Jacqueline is indeed a special filly and I am proud of her achievements. She has given us many a cherished moments but this one was tops,” he concluded before rushing off to receive hugs and handshakes from known and unknown admirers. “Jacqueline was at her best. There is nothing much to do with a Champion like Jacqueline in terms of preparation as it comes naturally to her. I only ensured that she was calm and happy. She loves to run and speed and stamina is something she is blessed with. Richard knew her thoroughly and rode a perfect race.

I am happy for my owners and I also would like to thank my stable hands for all their contribution,” said Pesi, this time sporting a wide and a genuine smile. With the Invitation Cup just four weeks away, the battle between Jacqueline and Becket, the duo who are clearly a cut above the rest, will be an ideal post-script for stretching the turf battles to another big landmark.

Jacqueline Vs Becket, the battle will be renewed shortly, on the same turf, over the same distance and with the same enthusiasm in exactly four weeks. However, will the result be the same? One can never tell. The ¾ length verdict is too close a call for either camp to be confident. This is what makes Horse Racing one of the most glorious sports across the globe!