Harrish
Mehta, Holding Court's owner, flew in from London late in the afternoon
on Saturday. I caught up with him at the Arlington Sheraton (adjacent to
Arlington Park) and Mr. Mehta, hardly showing signs of jet lag, took the
time for a conversation.
"Holding Court represents India's hopes. Yes, it is an incomparable
personal accomplishment for trainer Padmanabhan bringing the horse, and
getting ready to race in America. I am thrilled that I am part of
history and connected to a thoroughbred who is out to meet new
challenges. We wanted to go in the Million. Monday's race, though not
graded, has a high-quality field if a cursory reading of the race page
is any criterion, " Mr Mehta said.
Mr Mehta continued, "My horse's trip to the US shows how strong the
Indian horse-breeding establishment has become. Horses bred in India are
making their mark on the international scene. I am always willing to
explore new horizons. Nothing would delight me more than doing my part
to pave the way for future endeavors. Holding Court presented the ideal
opportunity to put my philosophy into practice. When the moment came. I
did not hesitate. What we are attempting to do, I am hoping that other
owners will feel encouraged."
We switched gears. We had to talk about Holding Court and his potential.
"He is an 'entire'. I am starting a breeding farm and having Holding
Court as a torch-bearer beats everything. Winning a graded event in
America would be the most exciting part of a stallion's resume. After
all, the 'US yardstick' is the most critical measuring tool by which
horses are judged. I am looking forward to Monday's race and I want to
reiterate that it is India's step forward in the world racing map that
Holding Court symbolizes."
I had to bring up possible racing strategy. "E .T. Baird, who rode him
at work, was extremely pleased. He is positive. I leave the planning and
the strategy to Padmanabhan. He knows what to do and I have complete
confidence in him."
Trainer Padmanabhan came in to make it a three-way conversation. "The
turf course, I believe, will be perfect on Monday. A 'cut' in the ground
will help but 'firm' going will not be an obstacle. Holding Court has
worked better than I expected and has acclimatized himself well.
Versatility is Holding Court's strength. He can make it. He can stalk.
He can come from out of it."
Padmanabhan went on. "Holding Court had reached the top in India. It was
time to explore the unknown. This trip to America is a test of my
professional skills. What a thrill it would be for an Indian horse to
earn 'black type' in the US. I am confident that Holding Court will give
a good account of himself."
Asked if he had a message for racing fans in India, trainer Padmanabhan
had a quick response, "I'll ask them to say a prayer."
