IN PHOTOS: How jockeys and trainers gear up for the Mumbai derby

Updated On: 21 January, 2024 04:18 PM IST | Editor

Held annually at Mahalaxmi Racecourse on the first Sunday of February, the Great Indian Derby emerges as the most prestigious Indian horse race event, drawing pomp and glamour in the company of debonair dignitaries, bettors and spectators alike

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<p>There’s no horsing around when it comes to Mumbai Derby. “With the onset of winters, classic races are up for grabs and my primary focus is to remain light-weight,” shares Suraj Narredu – the city-based jockey with a track record of 2290 wins, including 90 classics</p>

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There’s no horsing around when it comes to Mumbai Derby. “With the onset of winters, classic races are up for grabs and my primary focus is to remain light-weight,” shares Suraj Narredu – the city-based jockey with a track record of 2290 wins, including 90 classics

<p>Mumbai’s horse racing season commences in November and goes on till April featuring India’s top five classic races: the Indian Derby, the 1000 Guineas Race, the 2000 Guineas Race, the Oaks Race and the St Leger Race</p>

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Mumbai’s horse racing season commences in November and goes on till April featuring India’s top five classic races: the Indian Derby, the 1000 Guineas Race, the 2000 Guineas Race, the Oaks Race and the St Leger Race

<p>“Horses are not merely athletes; they are cherished companions whose care involves a comprehensive routine,” outlines Subhag Kamat (48) who has been training racehorses at Mumbai’s turf club</p>

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“Horses are not merely athletes; they are cherished companions whose care involves a comprehensive routine,” outlines Subhag Kamat (48) who has been training racehorses at Mumbai’s turf club

<p>A crucial component of their diet is oats, a concentrated feed rich in nutrients. Additionally, horses graze on grass hay throughout the day, promoting optimal nutrition and digestive health. Kamat stresses that racehorses require high nutritional foods to withstand rigorous physical conditioning and specialised workouts</p>

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A crucial component of their diet is oats, a concentrated feed rich in nutrients. Additionally, horses graze on grass hay throughout the day, promoting optimal nutrition and digestive health. Kamat stresses that racehorses require high nutritional foods to withstand rigorous physical conditioning and specialised workouts

<p>Jockeys engage in a high-risk sport where even a minor setback poses the potential of sidelining them from the major races they`ve dedicated years preparing for. Consequently, they must maintain their weight in the range of 50-55 kilograms to maximise the horse’s speed and performance</p>

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Jockeys engage in a high-risk sport where even a minor setback poses the potential of sidelining them from the major races they`ve dedicated years preparing for. Consequently, they must maintain their weight in the range of 50-55 kilograms to maximise the horse’s speed and performance

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IN PHOTOS: How jockeys and trainers gear up for the Mumbai derby

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Photo of Day

Breaking barriers and building pyramids — Women power in action!