After the Bangalore Summer season, the racing circus in the Karnataka state shifts to Mysuru and following  good spells of monsoon showers, the lush green track is in ship-shape condition ready for the first-day, first-show on Thursday. A competitive seven-event card including the Srikantadatta Narasimharaaja Wadiyar Memorial Multi-Million, the first big plum of the season is framed on the opening day, seven quality three-year-old youngsters in the fray for the feature. Twice winner from as many starts, Indian Brocade from the stables of Rajesh Narredu is certain to gain the top billing in the event and a big effort from her in the rich showdown at sundown will provide the perfect start for the season. 

Chairman and Senior Steward of the Mysore Race Club (MRC), G Venkatesh satisfied with all the required preparations for the start disclosed that most professionals from the neighbouring race clubs satisfied with the track and the facilities on offer have promised to bring the cream from their yards and this will provide a shot in-the-arm for the sport in the royal city. "It will be a highly competitive 15-day season and the blue riband of the season, the Mysore Derby scheduled to be held on the final day, October 26 will provide the silver lining before MRC hosts the Champion Of Champions event, the Indian Turf Invitation Cup on the first Sunday of March, next year," said Venkatesh adding that all the top saddle artistes will parade their skills at this centre despite the fact that it is a crowded racing calendar this time of the year. 

A total advertised stakes of 6.63 crore for the season is on offer. And In addition to the existing performance incentives extended to owners, the club has decided to reward the Mysore -based owners with other incentives in recognition of their continued commitment to the sport at this premier centre. "In addition float subsidies for outstation horses will be disbursed in accordance to the prevailing norms, showcasing the club's dedication to equitable participation and excellence," said Venkatesh. 

The Mysore Derby and the classics apart, the Dasara Sprint Championship to be held on Oct 10 will prove to be a big draw considering that most top trainers from Bangalore, Hyderabad and Chennai are keen to race the best sprinters under their care for the prestigious event. "The Dasara Sprint Championship always attracted the best and hopefully we will get to see some of the best sprinters in action again this season," said Venkatesh. 

Well the stage is set and the onus is now on the professionals to gear up and make their presence felt in what promises to be a high-octane racing season.