Racing

Stud Poker Headlines Mysore’s Prestigious Invitation Cup Weekend

  • Authored By: Sports Now
  • Updated Oct 24, 2026, 00:51 IST

The Mysore racecourse prepares for a high-stakes weekend featuring the Zavaray Poonawalla Mysore Derby, Sprinters’ Cup, and Stayers’ Cup, with Stud Poker, Time And Tide, and Red Bishop emerging as the leading contenders.

Stud Poker Headlines Mysore’s Prestigious Invitation Cup Weekend

The Mysore racecourse is set to host a thrilling weekend of equestrian action this Saturday, October 24, headlined by the prestigious Invitation Cup series. The card features three major championship events: the Zavaray Poonawalla Mysore Derby, the Zavaray Poonawalla Sprinters’ Cup, and the Zavaray Poonawalla Stayers’ Cup. Racing enthusiasts are looking toward a trio of in-form horses to dominate the marquee races.

In the feature Zavaray Poonawalla Mysore Derby over 2,000 metres, Stud Poker enters the contest as the horse to beat. Coming off two consecutive victories, the runner is currently in peak condition and is widely tipped to secure a third straight win. Competition is expected to come from Black Irish, who finished a commendable second to Stud Poker in their previous encounter, and the consistent Mahogany, who also arrives with two recent wins to her name.

Contenders Emerge for Sprinters’ and Stayers’ Cups

The Zavaray Poonawalla Sprinters’ Cup, contested over 1,200 metres, sees Time And Tide leading the market. The well-prepared sprinter is expected to face a stern challenge from the formidable Money Bags, a performer known for rousing displays, and Encino, who arrives in Mysore following an impressive victory at Pune.

Meanwhile, the 3,000-metre Zavaray Poonawalla Stayers’ Cup highlights the endurance capabilities of the field. Red Bishop, fresh off a victory in the Indian St. Leger at Pune, is the clear favorite to maintain that momentum. The primary threat to Red Bishop is expected to be Dyf, a stout stayer who has shown the capacity to challenge the top contenders in long-distance events.

Beyond the championship races, the day’s program includes a full slate of competitive events, including the Madras Race Club Million, the Coromandel Gromor Juvenile Million, and the Hyderabad Race Club Million. False rails will be positioned approximately two metres wide from the 1,600-metre mark to the winning post to ensure optimal track conditions for the day’s proceedings.