The Lucknow Race Course and Turf Club transformed into a vibrant spectacle of fashion, sport, and excitement this Sunday for the prestigious 'Arjun Cup: The Majestic Horse Race'. The event drew a chic crowd, with men sporting blazers and leather jackets and women elegantly dressed in trench coats, skirts, and dresses, all converging to witness equine athleticism under the soft winter sun.
A Day of Elegance and Electric Anticipation
As the dim sunlight bathed the racecourse, a palpable sense of anticipation filled the air. The lively tunes of the band 'Last Cigarette Theory' provided a perfect soundtrack, mingling with the excited chatter of the spectators. Attendees, wrapped in cozy scarves and mufflers, sipped on hot beverages while cheering enthusiastically. Children, with faces pressed against the grills, waved with unbridled joy at the magnificent horses parading by. The energy reached a feverish pitch the moment the announcer's voice crackled over the loudspeakers, signaling the imminent start of the race.
Thundering Hooves and Champion Horses
The races were held in two main categories: Indianbred and Thoroughbred horses. A total of 11 horses competed, namely: Rudra, Budweiser, Golden Boy, Mariella, Chopin, Angel In My Heart, Uncle's Pet, Lemon Drop, Shan e Azeem, Aloha, and Spiritual Force.
In the Indianbred category, the victory was clinched by Golden Boy. Owned by Shabab Abbas Naqvi and expertly ridden by jockey Mohammad Islam, Golden Boy secured the top position and a cash prize of Rs 5,000. The second position, with a prize of Rs 3,000, was secured by Budweiser, owned by Naisha Jaiswal.
The Thoroughbred category witnessed an impressive win by the mare Angel In My Heart. Owned by J N Mathur and ridden by Mayank, she galloped to first place, earning a handsome cash reward of Rs 10,000. The second position, worth Rs 7,000, was bagged by Chopin, owned by Amar Habibullah. The ride was expertly handled by 60-year-old jockey Mohammad Islam, who also rode Golden Boy to victory. Sharing his passion, Islam said, "I have been riding since I was 12 years old and it's my passion. I practise riding every day and it keeps me motivated." Mariella, owned by Vikas Pandey and ridden by Miraj, finished third, winning Rs 4,000.
Spectators Share Their Love for the Sport
The event was not just about the races but also about the community of enthusiasts it brought together. Spectator Neha Mehra, an equestrian herself, said, "I love to see horse races, as I am an equestrian and I own two horses." Another attendee, Riddhima Saha, enjoyed the event with friends over hot coffee. "I have been attending horse races since childhood. Earlier I used to come along with my father but for the last two years I have been coming with my husband," she shared, highlighting the event's cross-generational appeal.
The day also celebrated style alongside sport. The best hat prize was awarded to Singh, while Poulomi Shukla was named best dressed lady. Namit Batra won best dressed male, and the couple Harsh and Varsha Nagar received the best made for each other (senior) prize, adding a touch of glamour to the thrilling sporting action.
