In the gate practice sessions, Philatelist, partnered with C. Umesh, clocked 1:06 over 1000m, finishing a distance ahead of State Express. Similarly, Opus Dei, ridden by Neeraj, produced a sharp effort over the same distance, finishing four lengths clear of Acrobatic with a time of 1:06. These sessions provided a clear indication of their current fitness levels as they prepare for future competition.
Track work and training updates
The morning session featured several other notable gallops on the inner sand. Deavline, under Gore, finished four lengths ahead of It’s My Time after both were pushed over 1000m, recording a time of 1:06. Tranquila also caught the eye, clocking 1:07 for the 1000m distance, with an 800m split of 51 seconds and a final 600m in 38 seconds. Other horses to move fluently during their 800m gallops included Dyf, Fire Away, Frenzy, Jumanah, and Saint Sizzle, all of whom clocked 39 seconds for their final 600m.
In other gate practice exercises, Pearl Of Grace finished four lengths ahead of Running Away, covering 1000m in 1:08. Megatron also showed good form, finishing three lengths clear of Whispering Angel, who in turn finished four lengths ahead of Inevitable in their 1000m trial. Meanwhile, Andre, Rise All The Stars, and Dedication all moved with fluency during their respective gallops.
Mock race results
The training activity followed a series of mock races held on the track on September 13. The first 1200m mock race saw complications, as Bluebird turned around shortly after the start and Dash failed to leave the stalls, leaving Spanish Eyes as the only participant to complete the course in 1:13. The second mock race over 1200m proved more productive, with Dream Seller leading from pillar to post to secure a comfortable victory. Dream Seller clocked 1:08, finishing ahead of Cornucopia and the remaining field, which included Manor House, Vermeer, Pentimento, and Minimus.
