37th Poonawalla Breeders’ Multi-Million to be run on Feb. 22
By Vinayak Zodge | The Hindu
The 37th running of the Poonawalla Breeders’ Multi-Million (PBMM) — the biggest attraction after the Indian Derby —will light up the Mahalaxmi Racecourse on Sunday, February 22.
The Royal Western India Turf Club (RWITC) has framed a glittering eight-race evening programme with the opener set for 4 p.m. Entry is free for ladies.
Fondly known as the ‘Juvenile Derby’, the PBMM serves as the ultimate yardstick for the country’s finest three-year-olds. The prestigious contest carries a rich stakes of ₹1.5 crore, with a winner’s purse of ₹90 lakh, underscoring its stature as the premier juvenile championship of the year.
Fashion will seamlessly blend with racing fervour as Delna Poonawalla, daughter of Zavaray Poonawalla, will unveil a teaser of her capsule collection at the RWITC. Inspired by turf-side elegance, fine craftsmanship and contemporary Indian glamour, the exclusive preview is a tribute to the Poonawalla family’s legacy in Indian thoroughbred and will reaffirming the PBMM’s reputation as a celebration where sport, society, and high fashion stride forward together.
Racegoers in the Members’ and First Enclosures will have the opportunity to take part in a grand lucky draw featuring an array of attractive prizes, including a Toyota Glanza, Honda Activa, LED TV and a laptop. To enter, participants need to predict the first four placings in the PBMM.
Owing to the recent glanders outbreak at southern racing centres, this year’s edition will be restricted to Western India contenders, with outstation runners unable to participate.
Among the nine contenders vying for supremacy, trainer Karthik Ganapathy’s colt Buckingham, who has won both his starts, maintains a winning form as evidenced by the track performances.
Invictor, schooled by Altamash Ahmed, who won very well in his last start, is in good shape and could pose a serious threat. Malesh Narredu’s charge Enrich, an impressive winner over 1400m, may have a say at the finish.
Lady Scarlet, who hails from Adhirajsingh Jodha’s yard, is a winner of two races and given her show in the morning trials, may spring a surprise. Deepesh Narredu’s filly Blue Jet, winner of a race, could pull off an upset.
