A storm of surprises amid Suraj’s milestone

Calcutta: Trainer V.Ajith Kumar, in partnership with Vaibhav, lit up the afternoon with a stunning double that sent shockwaves through the racecourse. Their runners, Queen Anula and Strong Talons, delivered dominant, eye-catching victories. Both seven-year-olds, seemingly out of sorts earlier in the season, roared back to form in spectacular fashion, leaving officials and racegoers alike stunned. 
  The drama was heightened by strong late betting support on both runners. Queen Anula, in particular, was backed down dramatically from 15/1 to 4/1 just before the start—a move that is certain to draw the attention of the stewards. On the track, the duo were unstoppable. Strong Talons powered away to win the 1,600m Noble View Handicap by over six lengths, while Queen Anula trounced favourite Upper Street by more than seven lengths in the 1,400m Surfside Handicap.
  The three victories of V.Ajith 's horses this season had a similar pattern- no current form, systematic drop in handicap through poor runs and volumes of money pouring from longer odds. Welcome southern India betting syndicate to RCTC.
  Suraj Narredu added yet another glittering chapter to his career, bringing up his 50th winner of the season in style. Guiding Vijay Singh’s Shine in the day's feature- the Bangalore Turf Club Cup.Suraj was always in control as the filly cruised past pacesetter Victoria Cross (Vishal Bunde up) to complete a fluent hat-trick.
  Trevor and Antony Raj were also in top form, each notching up a fine double.
  Trevor struck first aboard S.S. Attaollahi-trained Xanthe, who outclassed her rivals in the 1,600m Nikita Handicap to register a hat-trick. Favourite Star Studded fading tamely when challenged. He then completed his brace with Aashay Doctor’s Cigar Galaxy, who scored with authority in the 1,400m Oakmead Handicap Division I, with Jimmy Bee finishing a notable second.
  Antony Raj had to dig deep to guide Neil Darashah’s Sea Eagle to a gutsy pillar-to-post victory in the lower division of the Oakmead Handicap, holding off Oh My Darling and Three Little Words. He capped off a memorable day in style, steering Rutherford Alford’s Mi Arion to a commanding victory in the finale.