King Ke, the five-year-old gelding from the champion yard of Pesi Shroff, shapes as the prime contender for the prestigious Teena Katrak Memorial Independence Million, scheduled to be run at the Pune Race Course on Friday. With a competitive field of 13 runners set to spring from the gates, King Ke carries the weight of strong expectations. The gelding announced himself in style earlier this year, clinching the Mysore Race Club Ltd Million in March — a performance that firmly marked him as one to watch.
His most recent outing was a nail-biting affair in Chennai, where the debutant produced a stirring late burst to pip Luca, ridden by ace jockey A. Sandesh, by the narrowest of margins — just a nose. That victory showcased both his fighting spirit and his ability to rise under pressure, qualities that will be invaluable over Friday’s challenging 2000-meter trip.
While King Ke undoubtedly appears to be the horse to beat, the race will not be without threats. Endurance, with his proven staying ability, and Escondido, who has been showing steady improvement, should be kept on the radar. Both are capable of springing a surprise if given the right run of the race.
This 6th race of the Independence Day card promises to be a thrilling contest — a true test of stamina, strategy, and sheer will to win.
First race: 2.00pm.
Selections
1. The Unforgettable You Plate: 1. (2), 2. (6).
2. The B K Lagad Salver: 1. (1). 2. (5)
3. The Mayor's Trophy: 1. ((1), 2. (8)
4. The Lucky Luciano Trophy: 1. (1), 2. (2), 3. (6)
5. Teena Katrak Memorial Million: 1 KIng Ke (3), 2. Endurance (2), 3. Esconido (8)6. The Thanda Plate: 1. (5), 2. (1), 3. (6)
