What was expected to be a close affair turned out to be a one-horse race as the Pesi Shroff-trained Zuccaro, despite a massive 34 kg disadvantage in the scales of official ratings, posted a sensational victory in the AC Ardeshir Trophy (Gr 3), the feature event of the six-race at the Mahalaxmi racetrack on Sunday.

Supported very well by his backers in the bookmakers` ring, Zuccaro`s odds dramatically came down from 2/1 to 16/10 in the final minutes. On the racetrack, jockey Vivek G settled Zuccaro last of five as Coeur De Lion showed the way to Geographique, Mojito and Once You Go Black. Turning for home, Suraj Narredu on Geographique quickly made his move to grab the lead, but Zuccaro also started moving menacingly after skirting the small field and showing up on the outside. Vivek then put the Pesi Shroff-trained four-year old into top gear, and it ceased to be a contest as Zuccaro lengthened his strides and galloped away for a smashing victory.