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Tr. S K Sunderji when afforded an opportunity to explain the poor performance of b g NISHK which finished last (9th) in the race as compared to its previous outing in Race No. 9 - THE STAR CONTENDER HANDICAP held on 13th November, 2021 where it finished a close 3rd, stated that :-

1.    My instructions to Jockey C. S. Jodha were to make the running if possible but if any  other horse tries to race to the front then he should sit 2nd or 3rd and do his best in the home stretch.

2.    After his last race in race No 9 I felt a furlong extra would be better suited to him, secondly I observed that he leaned on to the horse that was on the rails just in front of him rather than passing him hence the instructions to go to the front.

3.    I have tried everything possible to help the horse by saddling him in the outside stall before the saddling enclosure, sending him early to the starting gates, requesting the starter to load him last.

4.        I have tried to keep him fit and well and in good condition expecting him to perform well, but after his run in race no 22 I conclude that NISHK lacks consistency, he is not genuine and cannot be depended on.

On questioning Jockey C S Jodha corroborated the Trainer’s instructions and further stated that when asked for an effort in the final straight, the gelding did not respond in spite of his best efforts and finished last.

Their explanations were noted for future reference.