Calcutta: A poor field and belated start of the winter season, beginning on Sunday, hardly justifies the rosy picture painted by those in power at the media conference last month. The season opener, originally scheduled for October 25, had to be cancelled on account of paucity of acceptors.

The RCTC stewards are, however, confident that things will improve soon enough — a promise made by chairman Cyrus Madan. The stake money has already been hiked to Rs 6.48 crore — compared to Rs 3.2 crore offered last winter. The horse strength will definitely improve from the present 321. “Just bear with us,” said a steward who did not wished to be named. Nevertheless, the main event in the day’s six-event card, the Compassionate Cup, promises some excitement with the likes of Raudo, Olympic Medal and Tomahawk in the line-up.

ACCEPTANCES

1. MacArthur Handicap 1,400m Rt 00-30 1pm: Anderlecht 62; Compliment 61.5; Silent Hunter 61.5; Eveready Sir 59.5; Ganga Rose 51.

2. Zanzibar Trophy 1,400m Rt 00-50 1.30pm: Siddh Raj 61; Razorsharp 58.5; Romantic Quest 58.5; Amenable 52.5; Megillah 52.5.

3. Fiddler Handicap 1,100m Rt 20-70 2pm: Asiatique 61; Bright Blossom 59.5; Charulata 57; Elemental Wish 52.5; Champion Crusader 51.5; Over The Limit 50.

4. Sweet Romeo Handicap 1,400m Rt 20-70 2.30pm: Win For Me 61.5; Antonique 57; Dancing Vision 55; Royal County Down 54.5; Secret Wish 53.5; Racing Remours 52; Canterbury Rocks 51.5; Prospective Queen 50.

5. Compassionate Cup 1,200m Rt 40-90 3pm: Noble Desire 60; Raudo 58; Tomahawk 57.5; Olympic Medal 57; Magic Mantra 56; King Cole 54.5; Exclusive Affair 53.5; Acrostic 49.

6. Wind Song Handicap 1,200m Rt 00-50 3.30pm: Major Starr 61.5; Arrayal 60.5; Grand Ceremony 60.5; Sea Legend 59; Finesse 58.5; Art Of War 57; Asmodeus 55; Live It Love It 55; Altissimo 54.

Jackpot: 2, 3, 4, 5 & 6. Treble: (i) 1, 2 & 3; (ii) 4, 5 & 6.