Secret Memory who had smashed the field in the 2000 Guineas, was the
firm favourite, but there were a few who doubted that he may find the
mile and half trip taxing on his stamina. Star Luminary on the other
hand, had no such problems, having tackled the trip earlier with
consummate ease.
Secret Memory hit the front as the starter dispatched the field for the
mile and half trip but was soon provided cover by stable-mate Fabulous
Emperor who took over the job of setting the pace. Super Speed raced a
handy third while Star Luminary was comfortably settled in the mid group
along with Symbol Of Speed and the rest.
Jockey Suraj Narredu was in a hurry to steal the match as he pushed
Super Speed to take over the running just before the final bend but this
effort told on the Tirol progeny who weakened after going into a few
lengths lead. Secret Memory fought back to regain the lead but the hopes
of the favourite were dashed as Star Luminary responded brilliantly to
the urgings of jockey O’Donoghue and covered the leeway quickly on the
wide outside and passed the visibly tiring front-runner in the dying
moments of the race. Super Speed ran on to finish third ahead of Symbol
of Speed. It was a one-two for the owner-trainer combination of Dr M A M
Ramaswamy and Ganapathy.
Jockey Srinath stole the limelight with a fine treble. He guided home
Classical Dancer, Zanzara and Splendid Surprise to facile wins. Mahaesh
trained Splendid Surprise won the Ted Fordyce Cup, a rich terms race for
three-year olds, the supporting event of the day, in brilliant fashion.
