Bhangra Knight, the 6 year-old from trainer Rafaat Hussain's yard, made the best of the featherweight of 47 Kgs to win the feature event of the afternoon, The Prince Mouzam Jah Bahadur Memorial Cup run over 1,400 metres.
In a field of 9 runners, Silvestre settled Bhangra Knight in fourth position in most part of the trip. He made his challenge at 400 metres, took charge at 200 metres and then shrugged off the late challenge of Touch Of Gold to win by 1/2 a length.
The difference between victory and defeat was so because Silvestre rode at 47 Kgs without carrying any overweight. The favourite Arrow Of Light ran out of steam at the top of the straight itself. His run is best ignored.
This was incidentally the first category 1 race where jockeys’ claiming allowance was allowed to take advantage of their allowance, a right move taken though very late unlike other centres.
Suraj Narredu was the jockey of the afternoon booting home the first three races through Hardcore in the maiden 2 year-olds race, followed by Flying Rudolph and Golden Celebrity. Hardcore was very lucky to win in the opener, as he had to fight every inch of ground throughout the straight with the on-money favourite Ravileena giving tough fight. Ravileena, who worked brilliantly with blinkers lately, ran without the equipment for reasons unknown. She lives to fight another day.
Suraj's second win came through Flying Rudolph, the good-looking chestnut from Prasad Raju's stables. He led from start and was never headed at any part of the race with Glaring Godzilla coming late on the scene. Raj Veer, who finished a good third, was never in the front as usual. His jockey JH Christoper has been suspended for the period January 4-7, for incompetent handling. Suraj's third win was Golden Celebrity who was last till heads turned for home. He came with a spirited run on the wide outside to take charge at 350 metres, in the process forcing the favourite Ten Downing Street between Dark Stranger and Lady Escort. Silvestre rightly protested but his appeal was overruled by the stewards.
Suraj Narredu was fined Rs 2000 for the offence which is a light infringement for a jockey of his calibre. The quality of stipening at Malakpet has, however, been getting better by the day, and the professionals now have to think wisely before taking any risk.
Trainer Prasad Raju was the only trainer to score a double in a small card of 6 events on Christmas Day.
