With Be Safe, the sun continues to shine on Suraj - By Shailendra Awasthi I TOI
Posted on - 06 Feb 2015
With Be Safe, the sun continues to shine on Suraj
By Shailendra Awasthi
Times of India
Ace jockey Suraj Narredu, who won his first Indian Derby last Sunday astride Be Safe, feels that the hype built around the big ticket clash in the forthcoming Indian Turf Invitation Cup between his colt and Pesi Shroff-trained wonder mare Amazing Grace is great for the sport.
“Indian racing needs such hyped encounters among top talents as it raises curiosity levels and attracts crowds to the racecourse,” feels 29-year-old saddle artist from Bengaluru. He, however, feels Be Safe has an edge over Amazing Grace. “I have seen all the races of Amazing Grace and even have competed against her. She has matured late but is highly talented. I respect her abilities but I think Be Safe is a rare competitor and certainly enjoys the edge,” the winner of more than 1500 races in his an illustrious 13-year career told TOI.
Suraj says he had won the Indian Derby more than 100 times in his mind before the actual race. “In the days prior to the Derby, I was constantly thinking about various scenarios I may encounter during the race and about the ways to overcome them in my mind. I can’t deny I was under pressure but belief in my horse’s ability helped me relax,” says winner of three Indian classics (all this season) and numerous other classics.
Suraj said riding in various countries across the world has helped him become a better rider. “I learnt a lot competing on foreign turfs with top class jockeys and working with some of the top trainers. I now have a better judgment of pace and timing,” he claims.
The improvement in his riding is certainly evident from his victories in five different Derbies in the last few months. He won the Bangalore Summer Derby on Be Safe while claiming the Pune, Kolkata and Hyderabad Derby all through Quasar.
Talking about Be Safe, Suraj says he is the most intelligent horse he has ever seen. “He knows what to do in any situation. It is amazing. He knows that he is a champion and has great attitude. He walks with a swagger to the starting stall and does not roll with other horses. He keeps himself away. He constantly watches the scene around him and his body language indicates that he knows he is different,” revealed Suraj. “He even literally poses when he sees a camera,” stressed Suraj.
He gives full credit to uncle Malesh Narredu, trainer of Be Safe.
“He is working harder than ever before. He kept the three top horses from his stable in great shape giving everyone full attention.” Talking about Be Safe owner MAM Ramasawmy, Suraj said the legendary owner inspired him. “He called me on Derby day and said he is praying for my victory and asked me to stay calm and not allow negative thoughts to creep in,” added Suraj.
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