Ohiyesa Wins in a Common Canter |
| It is a rare sight to see a three year old tackling open company in his second lifetime start, and that too handling it comfortably while romping home to a popular victory. Trainer Darashah's Ohiyesa had won a maidens event a couple of weeks ago. The youngsters at Mysore began their careers only in May, as there was no racing during the Winter season. Since the terms races for three year olds in the current season are spaced out, the veteran trainer would have had to wait a long time to race Ohiyesa again. The horse had apparently impressed his master by a step-up in form, and this had enthused the trainer to pitch him at the deep end. The S V Subramaniam Memorial Gold Cup, a handicap race for horses in Class IV, was the feature event in Thursday's race card. Ohiyesa was handicapped almost at the top of this class, and his fortunes were entrusted to Gnaneshwar. On breeding and current form, Ohiyesa stood tall amongst a full complement of a dozen starters.He was installed at the top of the betting boards. Cilantro was his nearest challenger, and the three Kilos claimed by Madhubabu enhanced his chances. The tough fight expected between the two market leaders never materialized. What transpired was actually impressive. With the speedy Karumba going to the front, Gnaneshwar was happy to keep Ohiyesa in second berth ahead of Cilantro and the rest. It was only a question of time thereafter, as the favourite was seen to be travelling comfortably near the final turn. Gnaneshwar relaxed his hold ,and the favourite darted forward. In a fraction of a second, the result became obvious.Ohiyesa lengthened his strides and cantered away from Cilantro. Karumba plodded on to retain the third place. The winner is in great condition, and is set to win many more laurels for his master. It may take a while for the handicapper to get his measure. Cilantro was unfortunate to run into a top class three year old. Thursday's card included a rare race for horses in Class I. There aren't many high rated horses stationed at Mysore. The owners have the option of racing them at Bangalore. Seven milers accepted to face the starter in this race. On all known form and fitness, Our Little Savage looked better than the rest. Despite his back breaking weight, the small made grey gave a gutsy performance, and lasted out to win in an exciting finish from Red Key Point. He seemed to have the race in his pocket before the runner-up gained ground on him. A long neck separated the two at the wire. A late effort brought Amazing One into third position. With this victory, Darashah completed his treble as he had won an earlier event with Latin Twister. This horse took five years to win his first race, and only a fortnight to repeat the feat. The connections were lucky to find another" Class B "mile race within two weeks of each other. Trainer Appachu and his followers landed a big coup with Arabian Speed. Having relocated this horse from Western India, he was given an easy run before racing was interrupted in November. He had been subjected to some solid preparation, and had given all round satisfaction in his morning trials. The horse was plastered down from 4/1 in the morning trade to on-money favouritism at race time. His supporters were delighted to see him run on the track. He converted the race into a procession, as he sauntered away to a memorable victory over Australis and Spanish Crown. The winner can definitely repeat over a sprint in his next appearance. The last race of the day saw Loremo running riderless on the track, before he was declared a non-starter. A late surge of money on Show N Tell, saw this ward from Ranjeet's stable climbing the betting charts. This was the third time in three starts that this horse was being backed with confidence. Show N Tell ran like a dud and ended in the ruck. It is time for his supporters to call it a day. Kamath's Maratha Conqueror collared the front running Hi Hennesy, and in the hands of Ravi, succeeded in warding off a late challenge from Looking To Lead. Kalpavruksha was a reluctant third. Both the placed horses are capable of improving from their current marks, and should win before the end of the season. The only other race in the day's card was won by Pine Forest. This nine year old from Bipin's stable was sporting Aluminium shoes, and this was indicative of his chances. He has obliged his owners with winning performances every time they have backed him in the lowest class. It was no different today, as he posted a fluent victory in the hands of apprentice Madhubabu.Rank outsider Prince Of Argyle ran powerfully to finish ahead of the others. |
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