RANQUELINO STORMS TO GLORY WITH A SENSATIONAL DERBY DOUBLE

The electrifying roar of a packed Mahalaxmi Racecourse echoed through the stands as Ranquelino (Fiero - JPN / Sunset), trained to perfection by Darius Byramji, etched his name in history by completing a sensational Derby double within a span of just seven days. After a commanding victory in the Bangalore Derby (Gr.1), the strapping bay colt returned to claim the most coveted prize of Indian horse racing—the Indian Derby (Gr.1)—sponsored by HPSL, held on the first Sunday of February.

Owned by Manjri Horse Breeders’ Farm Pvt. Ltd, Mr. Mukul A. Sonawala, Mr. Kishore M. Dingra, M/s DT Racing & Breeding LLP, Mr. S. R. Sanas, and Mr. Ashok Ranpise, the talented colt produced a performance befitting a champion under the masterful guidance of jockey A. Sandesh, reaffirming his dominance over the staying ranks.

Right from the start, the race unfolded at a solid pace, with African Gold setting a scorching gallop in front, ensuring that the field of top-class three-year-olds would need both stamina and tactical brilliance to land the spoils. Ranquelino, ridden with supreme confidence by Sandesh, was positioned in a perfect striking spot, racing in fourth or fifth through most of the journey, conserving energy for the final assault.

As the field approached the home turn, Pryite, a rank outsider, began making his presence felt, stalking the leaders just ahead of Ranquelino. However, it was African Gold who stole a march on the field, surging ahead and seemingly on his way to a dramatic wire-to-wire victory. But with 300 metres left to go, Sandesh asked Ranquelino for his effort, and the colt responded in emphatic fashion, quickening powerfully to reel in the runaway leader with every stride.

Once he gained command, there was no stopping this relentless galloper, who surged ahead in the final furlong to claim his second Classic crown in as many weeks. Pyrite, though overshadowed by the winner, fought gallantly to take the runner-up position, just ahead of the fast-finishing Positano, who unleashed a late surge from near the tail end of the field to grab a well-earned third. Thalassa, another late mover, also made up significant ground to finish fourth, ensuring a thrilling climax to India’s biggest racing spectacle.

HISTORIC FEAT FOR RANQUELINO

Winning back-to-back Derbies within such a short period is a rare and extraordinary achievement, firmly establishing Ranquelino as the top middle-distance performer of his generation. The colt’s seamless transition from Bangalore to Mumbai, coupled with his tactical adaptability, acceleration, and tenacity, underscores his class and the skillful conditioning of his veteran trainer, Darius Byramji.

Jockey A. Sandesh, who has developed an excellent partnership with Ranquelino, deserves immense credit for his impeccable judgment of pace and well-timed finishing effort. His unwavering determination in the saddle ensured that the colt peaked at the right moment to land the biggest prize in Indian racing.

www.INHorseracing.com congratulates the owners, trainer Darius Byramji, jockey A. Sandesh, and all connections on this incredible triumph. With Ranquelino announcing himself as a true champion, Indian racing fans eagerly await his next challenge.