MUMBAI: The most-awaited event of the year in Indian racing, the Indian Derby, may be shorn of a sponsor for the first time in decades, but it will not fall short on the usual glamour and high-octane action, the Royal Western India Turf Club (RWITC) has promised. Jagatjit Industries Ltd, a leading liquor producer, which had agreed to sponsor the mega race, has backed out owing to the ban on liquor sponsorship in the country and the recent advisory against the surrogate advertisement.
RWITC said both the race-loving and fun-seeking enthusiasts, who make their annual pilgrimage to the hallowed turf of Mahalakshmi racecourse, will not miss the glamour and glitz. "Sponsor or no sponsor, our Indian Derby day will be bigger and better than ever, and we will leave no stone unturned to make it an unforgettable experience for the people of Mumbai," said Surendra Sanas, chairman of the RWITC. Apart from the usual Derby day glamour and the glimpses of the best of Bollywood personalities that Mahalaxmi racecourse is known for on the first Sunday of every February, this year's action will unfold in the evening under the lights. Another added attraction in the evening on February 5 will be the presence of the Lil Flea, a curated festival of homegrown brands, music & food, who have promised to host the biggest racing party of the year.
The Indian Derby will, as usual, showcase an impressive line-up of premium horses and skilled jockeys aiming to prove their mettle and enthrall the audience. With total guaranteed stakes of Rs 2 crore on offer, this year the Derby will see as many as five to six outstation horses challenging the local stars. The champion filly (female horse) from Bengaluru, La Reina, will not be coming. Her trainer S Padmanbhan, feels that the 400kg small-built star will not be able to take the rigorous travel to Mumbai within 10 days of her grand triumph in the Bangalore Derby held on Republic Day.
"It will be a celebration of fashion, style, horse racing and much more. This year's Indian Derby evening is unmissable, and everyone is invited," said Shiven Surendranath, marketing head of the RWITC.
