Calcutta: Trainer Rutherford Alford’s Charismatic (Antony Raj up) stormed to a thrilling victory in the 1,600m Adjudicate Cup at the RCTC race grounds on Friday.
It is worth noting that the son of Excellent Art turned the tables in style, reversing a 7kg deficit on King Louis (Suraj Narredu)—his conqueror in the Aperitivo Cup two weeks ago. Though the terms favoured the latter, Charismatic had the last word.
Antony Raj and Suraj Narredu locked horns in a gripping stretch duel. Stride for stride they went before Charismatic thrust his head in front at the wire, snatching victory by a whisker. Ante-post favourite Dubai Princess pulled up lame before the bend.
The win completed a well-backed double for the Antony–Alford combine, courtesy of Conjurer’s fluent success in the 1,400m Sky Classic Handicap.
The afternoon began with Javed Khan-trained Royal Member (Suraj Narredu) justifying the short odds with a comfortable win in the 1,600m Predator Handicap, while Carnation impressed in second.
Aashay Doctor’s favourite Peaberry (Trevor Patel) held off stablemate Catherine (Imran Chisty) in a tight finish in the 1,100m King’s Academy Plate. Catherine may not remain in the maiden ranks for long.
The shock of the day came from Ritesh-trained 20/1 outsider Casha (A. Vikrant), who made every post a winning one in the 1,100m Ambereta Handicap. Roman Spirit (Vishal Bunde) and Superlative (Imran Chisty) finished late to occupy the minor placings. Mornao flopped once again.
The day concluded with Neil Darashah-trained Lochs And Glens (Suraj Narredu) trouncing the field in the 1,600m Almanac Handicap. The Saamidd colt could pick up another win before the season ends if connections so desire.