Social Butterfly, the in-form filly from the yard of ace trainer Dallas Todywalla, is expected to dominate the field when eight classy runners face the starter for the prestigious F.D. Wadia Trophy (Gr.3) at the Pune racetrack on Saturday.
Unbeaten in her last two appearances, Social Butterfly comes into this contest in red-hot form and looks the one to beat. The daughter of Leitir Mor has been in sublime touch since the start of the season. She launched her career in style by winning the J. Rustomji Soparivala Trophy in Mumbai under A. Sandesh. She then followed it up with another fluent victory in the Poonawalla Stud Farms Auction Sale Stakes, ridden by Allan David — again at the Mahalaxmi track.
Saturday will mark her first outing on the Pune monsoon track, and despite the slightly unfamiliar conditions, the filly appears more than capable of extending her winning streak and making it three in a row.
However, her task may not be entirely straightforward. Darcy and Johnny Mac add depth to the line-up and are expected to put up a stiff fight, ensuring the 1,400-metre contest is anything but a stroll. Darcy, in particular, has shown glimpses of brilliance and could pose the biggest threat if she brings her A-game to the course.
All said and done, Social Butterfly’s current form and natural class give her a clear edge in this grade III feature, and racing enthusiasts will eagerly watch to see if she can continue her unbeaten run in style.
First race: 2.00pm
Selections
1. The Golden Guest Plate: 1 (1), 2. (5)
2. The Mysore Race Club Trophy: 1. (1), 2. (3)
3. The Janardhan Salver: 1. (8), 2. (6), 3. (3)
4. The Su Chaliyo Plate: 1. (2), 2. (6)
5. The F D Wadia Trophy (Gr.3): 1 Social Butterfly (4), 2. Darcy (8), 3. Johnny Mac (7)
6. The Magansingh P Jodha Trophy: 1 (1), 2. (3), 3. (4)
7. The Waves Of Glory Plate: 1. (1), 2. (8)
