Lethal Levi Newmarket Bid in World Pool Hopeful Stakes

There was a buzz around Karl Burke’s yard this week as the veteran sprinter Lethal Levi prepared for another crack at Newmarket’s July Course. The six-year-old, as gutsy as they come, has long shown his liking for the undulating track, and jockey Sam James is confident the Listed The Hong Kong Jockey Club World Pool Hopeful Stakes (1200m) could be the perfect stage for his seasoned partner to strike again.

For many followers, this Lethal Levi Newmarket assignment represents a golden chance to land a black-type prize over his favoured six-furlong trip.

Burke, better known these days for his stream of precocious juveniles, spoke warmly of the old campaigner: “He has been even better since we added blinkers last year. He had been giving away some races at the start but he jumps much cleaner now. He is a terrific old horse.”

Form that commands respect

The numbers alone make impressive reading. From 40 career starts, Lethal Levi has finished in the first three on 22 occasions, almost all of them around the six-furlong trip that has become his calling card. His recent Group-level form underlines his consistency, having been edged out late in the G3 Criterion Stakes over 1400m at York in June, and only a short-head away from victory in the G2 Greenlands Stakes at the Curragh a month earlier.

With a clear ratings edge — carrying 3lb or more in hand over his ten rivals — Friday’s contest could be another chance for this popular sprinter to prove that experience and resilience still count in a division often dominated by younger legs. His regular rider Sam James has developed a fine partnership with him, knowing just how to settle the gelding into a rhythm before asking him to lengthen stride.

The Lethal Levi Newmarket test will once again see him lock horns with younger rivals, but his blend of toughness and racecraft makes him a genuine contender every time he lines up.

Rivals with claims

Invictus Gold brings back fond Newmarket memories, having scored over the same July Course 12 months ago in a novice event. Tom Clover’s charge looked firmly on the upgrade when running away with a 1200m Rowley Mile handicap in May, and although he failed to sparkle on his latest outing at Newmarket, excuses may lie in the ground and rhythm of the race. Clover’s team is in flying form and with Kieran Shoemark fresh from a York sprint success on Wednesday, connections will feel upbeat.

Ferrous is another with strong credentials if returning to his best. Trained by Jack Channon, the grey has won twice over this trip already this season, both with Callum Rodriguez aboard — and the pair will reunite on Friday.

Also in the line-up is Dubai Treasure, who turned back the clock with victory at Goodwood last month, his first win at this trip in nearly two years. Saeed bin Suroor has booked Daniel Muscutt for the ride, adding further intrigue to a well-matched sprint.

Earlier handicap adds intrigue

Newmarket’s card begins with the World Pool Bet With The Tote Handicap, a wide-open sprint in which Photosynthesis makes his first appearance at his home track for trainer Peter Chapple-Hyam. Twice a close runner-up at Newbury this summer, the gelding will be partnered by Harry Davies as he looks to transfer that form to the July Course. The handicap has attracted a competitive field and will give the crowd an early pointer on how the track is riding ahead of the Listed sprint.

Looking ahead

Lethal Levi has earned the respect of fans and rivals alike with his durability and honesty. With conditions in his favour and Burke’s faith in him unwavering, Friday’s Listed sprint could provide another chapter in the career of a horse who refuses to stop competing at the highest level.

For supporters, the Lethal Levi Newmarket challenge is one of the highlights of the World Pool action, a reminder that class and experience remain a potent mix.

For more stories, results, and updates from the world of horse racing, visit RaceBuzz.com

Finding Strength Gulfstream Park victory adds depth to Yates’ Juvenile lineup

Trainer Michael Yates couldn’t hide his delight on Sunday as he greeted Finding Strength back in the winner’s circle at Gulfstream Park. The two-year-old filly had just surged clear in front of a lively crowd, and Yates leaned in with a quiet kiss to her nose – the kind of simple gesture that told the story of both affection and expectation. Beside him, jockey Jesús Rios raised three fingers skyward, marking his third win of the day, while owners from LNJ Foxwoods and Church Street Stable beamed with pride.

It was another bright moment in what has already been a summer to savour for Yates. His tally now stands at eight wins during Gulfstream’s Royal Palm Meet, five of them supplied by juveniles. Four, including Finding Strength, are nominated to the Florida Sire Stakes Series that begins next month.

Finding Strength Gulfstream Park success

Bred in Florida by Elizabeth LaPierre and Jennifer Given, the daughter of Khozan out of Strength in Unity made quick work of her rivals in the 5½-furlong state-bred maiden special weight. Tracking the leaders in third through a sharp 22.02 opening quarter, she moved smoothly under Rios around the far turn, drew level by the half-mile in 46.05, and once straightened for home, opened up with authority. The winning margin was 4½ lengths in 1:04.80 on the fast track.

“She really moved forward from her first start,” Yates said afterwards. “Her debut was solid, but she left herself with a lot to do and had to go wide. This time she showed us what we hoped she could. We were thrilled.”

It capped a memorable afternoon for Yates, who earlier sent out juvenile colt Garretts On the Go to break his maiden on turf. Both are Florida Sire Stakes-nominated, keeping the trainer’s momentum strong heading into the prestigious series.

Florida Sire Stakes looms large

The Florida Thoroughbred Breeders’ and Owners’ Association’s $1.2 million Florida Sire Stakes Series opens September 6 with the $100,000 Desert Vixen for fillies and $100,000 Dr. Fager for colts and geldings. Later legs include the Susan’s Girl and Affirmed in October, before the My Dear Girl and In Reality close the curtain in November.

Yates knows the path well. Last year he swept the colt division with the unbeaten Rated by Merit, sidelined this spring but recently back in training at Saratoga. He has also previously won the Desert Vixen with Go Jo Jo Go (2020) and the Dr. Fager with Cajun’s Magic (2021) and Cajun Firecracker (2018).

Where Finding Strength goes next is still undecided. “We wanted to get Sunday behind us and then make a plan,” Yates admitted. “She’s earned her place in the conversation, and we’ll see where she takes us.”

With her decisive Gulfstream Park victory, Finding Strength has added her name to one of the deepest juvenile squads Yates has assembled in recent years. The Florida Sire Stakes will provide the next proving ground, but for now, the Royal Palm Meet belongs to a filly who lived up to her name and gave her trainer, jockey, and connections reason to dream bigger.

For more stories, results, and updates from the world of horse racing, visit RaceBuzz.com.

KerryGold, Winsangel & Enola Holmes Dominate Calcutta Monsoon Races

KerryGold, Winsangel, and Enola Holmes Shine on Thrilling Day at Calcutta Monsoon Races

Kolkata, August 20, 2025 — Cheers, sighs, and applause echoed around the stands as six competitive races unfolded in the latest edition of the Calcutta Monsoon Races. From a breathtaking juvenile dash to the dramatic Vajra Handicap finale, the afternoon was a true showcase of speed, strategy, and split-second brilliance that left punters and fans enthralled.

The crowd at the historic Kolkata track watched an electric day of racing, where big names delivered, underdogs fought hard, and trainers and jockeys celebrated emotional wins.

Winsangel Opens the Day at Calcutta Monsoon Races

The opening contest, The Select Handicap (1200m), set the tone for the day. Winsangel, trained by B. Mahesh and ridden confidently by Imran Chisty, produced a polished performance to storm home first in 1:14.568.

Trailing closely was NRI Fantasy, guided by jockey A. Ashhad Asbar for trainer Vikash Jaiswal, who clocked 1:14.676. Third place went to I Smell the Danger under Vishal N. Bunde for trainer Sabeel Shariff. Owned by Mrs. Sreya Bose, Mrs. S. Dhanalakshmi, Mr. Sribash Poddar, and Mr. B. Mahesh, Winsangel’s opening win drew early cheers from the grandstand, setting the rhythm for an action-packed afternoon.

True Faith Shines in Hovercraft Handicap at Calcutta Monsoon Races

In The Hovercraft Handicap (1600m), the versatile True Faith lived up to expectations. Partnered by jockey Neeraj Rawal and trained by Neil Darashah, the gelding surged ahead late to stop the clock at 1:39.984.

Jahzara, trained by Bharath Singh and ridden by R. Vaibhav, ran gamely for second in 1:41.161, while Sea Eagle, trained by Neil Darashah and ridden by Arul J.H., claimed third in 1:42.291. The victory added another feather to the cap of owners Mrs. Anneka Darashah, Mr. Hemant S. Dharnidharka, Mr. Cowas Dorab Bajan, and Mr. S. Roopesh.

Pantazi Dominates Betbricks7 Juvenile Sprint at Calcutta Monsoon Races

The crowd came alive for the day’s third event, The Betbricks7 Calcutta Juvenile Sprint (1100m), reserved for promising three-year-olds. Pantazi, under an ice-cool ride from P. Trevor and trained by Aashay Doctor, displayed class and acceleration, finishing in 1:05.751.

Stablemate Star Pride, also trained by Aashay Doctor and ridden by P. Tejeshwar, came in second at 1:09.299. The impressive win for Pantazi, owned by Mrs. Menaka Gupta, Mr. Vishal Doctor, Mr. Kamal J. Doctor, Mr. Viral Devkumar Doctor, and Mr. Achuthan Siddharth, sparked loud cheers from connections in the paddock.

KerryGold Shines in Betbricks7 Rising Stars Handicap

At 4:00 p.m., the Betbricks7 Rising Stars Handicap (1100m, Class IV) witnessed one of the afternoon’s most decisive victories. KerryGold, trained by Neil Darashah and partnered by Arul J.H., controlled the pace and never looked threatened, clocking 1:08.444 for an effortless win.

Honey Cake (trained by Shafiq Khan, ridden by Md. Sameer) followed in 1:08.685, with Jean Lafette (trained by B. Mahesh, ridden by Hasib Alam) taking third in 1:09.464. Owned by Manjri Horse Breeder’s Farm Pvt Ltd and Mr. Amitesh Singh, KerryGold’s smooth victory confirmed his growing reputation as one to watch.

Main Street Powers Home in Betbricks7 Play and Win Handicap

In the penultimate event, Main Street, expertly piloted by P. Trevor for trainer Arti Doctor, captured The Betbricks7 Play and Win Handicap (1400m, Class II) in a thrilling finish, stopping the clock at 1:25.600.

Snowpiercer (ridden by A. Ashhad Asbar, trained by Patrick Quinn) was narrowly denied, finishing second in 1:25.674, while King of Mafia (ridden by Imran Chisty, trained by B. Mahesh) claimed third in 1:25.736. The winner carried the colours of proud owner Mr. Kersi H. Vachha.

Enola Holmes Closes the Show in Vajra Handicap

The final race, The Vajra Handicap (1400m), wrapped up the day with a thrilling display of finishing speed. Enola Holmes, trained by Neil Darashah and ridden by Neeraj Rawal, produced a perfectly timed run to seize victory in 1:27.082.

Wonderful (ridden by R. Vaibhav, trained by B. Mahesh) finished a strong second in 1:27.518, followed by Chililady (ridden by Md. Sameer, trained by Shafiq Khan) in 1:28.177. Owned by Manjri Horse Breeder’s Farm Pvt Ltd, Enola Holmes’ success brought the curtain down on a spectacular day of racing at the Kolkata track.

A Day to Remember at Calcutta Monsoon Races

From start to finish, the Calcutta Monsoon Races on August 20, 2025 delivered storylines to remember — hard-fought duels, brilliant finishes, and standout performances from both seasoned champions and rising stars.

With Neil Darashah leading the training honours, P. Trevor and Neeraj Rawal splitting the riding spoils, and KerryGold and Enola Holmes dazzling on the turf, this meeting will be remembered as one of the season’s highlights.

For more updates, detailed race reports, and upcoming schedules from the Calcutta Monsoon Races visit Racebuzz.

For more information about the club and its racing events, visit the Royal Calcutta Turf Club website.

British EBF Powers Sky Ebor Festival 2025 with £500K Support

British EBF Strengthens Ebor Festival with £500,000 Support at York

York, August 20, 2025 — There was a palpable sense of anticipation across the Knavesmire as the British EBF once again reaffirmed its long-standing commitment to the sport, backing five high-profile races at this year’s Ebor Festival. With over £500,000 in total prize money directly supported by the British EBF, this sponsorship highlights its pivotal role in shaping the careers of racing’s future stars.

A Festival Steeped in Legacy and Ambition

The York crowd has come to expect quality, but the British EBF’s involvement at the Ebor Festival 2025 raises the stakes even higher. On Thursday, August 21, the spotlight falls on three EBF-backed contests, each carrying an impressive £100,000 prize fund.

Among the highlights is the Listed British EBF & Sir Henry Cecil Galtres Stakes, staged over just shy of 12 furlongs. Part of a 23-race programme dedicated to supporting talented fillies, the Galtres Stakes has built a reputation for producing champions. Recent graduates include Search For A Song, a dual Group 1 Irish St Leger heroine; Forbearance, winner of the Gr.3 Princess Royal Stakes; and Haskoy, who scored in the Gr.3 Aston Park Stakes.

Last year’s victor Scenic underlined the race’s status as a launchpad to success, returning this season to capture the Gr.3 Bronte Cup before finishing a close second in the Gr.2 Lancashire Oaks. Third-placed Nakheel from the 2024 renewal also went on to claim Group 2 honours in Doncaster’s Park Hill Stakes.

Emerging Stars from Historic Races

The EBF’s influence stretches well beyond the Galtres Stakes. The Mews Hotel Ossett EBF Stallions Nursery has been a breeding ground for future stars. Alflaila, who dead-heated for second in the 2021 edition, has since become a dual Gr.2 York Stakes winner. Meanwhile, Indian Dream, the 2022 runner-up, now thrives in Hong Kong, highlighted by victory in the Gr.3 January Cup earlier this year.

Similarly, the British EBF Fillies’ Handicap has produced outstanding broodmares and champions. Mistrusting, the 2015 winner, became the dam of Gr.1 scorers Mysterious Night and Althiqa, while Opal Tiara followed her 2016 success with Gr.2 victories in Dubai and Ireland.

Last year’s top three — Nigiri, Coco Jambo, and Naomi Lapaglia — all went on to secure black-type status in Group races, underlining the depth of quality the EBF-backed races consistently deliver.

Friday’s Rich Convivial Maiden: Europe’s Finest Two-Year-Old Contest

On Friday, August 22, attention turns to the British Stallion Studs EBF Convivial Maiden, Europe’s richest two-year-old maiden, boasting a £100,000 prize purse. Backed by the British EBF as part of the high-value development race programme, the contest is central to the drive to encourage investment in young talent and strengthen Britain’s breeding ecosystem.

The race’s honour roll speaks volumes. Among its notable graduates are Rivet and Naval Crown, both Group 1 winners; Hoo Ya Mal, Derby runner-up; and Molatham and Battle Cry, winners at Group 3 level.

In last year’s running, Whirl finished fifth but has since soared to new heights, securing four Group victories, including the Gr.1 Pretty Polly Stakes and Gr.1 Nassau Stakes this season — proof that the Convivial Maiden remains one of the sport’s most influential springboards.

A Four-Decade Legacy of Support

The British EBF, funded by British stallion owners, has been instrumental in shaping the sport for over 40 years, contributing £2 million annually to prize money. Its targeted investment focuses on the developmental stages of a horse’s career, a strategy that has nurtured some of racing’s greatest names, including Frankel, Alpinista, and Dubawi, all of whom launched their journeys in EBF-supported contests.

As the Ebor Festival 2025 unfolds, the British EBF’s vision remains clear: to ensure racing’s future stars continue to shine on the grandest stages.

Conclusion

With its £500,000 sponsorship commitment, the British EBF once again proves its status as a cornerstone of British Flat racing. By supporting the Ebor Festival at York, the organisation continues to pave the way for future champions while protecting the health and vibrancy of the sport’s breeding and racing ecosystem.

For more updates and full coverage from India and round the world, visit RaceBuzz.

For more information about the British EBF and their supported races, visit the official EBF Stallions website.

Velocity Shines in Del Mar Oaks 2025 – Gonzalez Guides Filly to Grade I Upset

Velocity Surges Late to Seal Del Mar Oaks Glory

There was no disguising Ricky Gonzalez’s emotion as he guided Velocity back to the Del Mar winner’s circle. The young rider patted the filly’s neck again and again before leaning down to plant a grateful kiss on her mane. Around them, a lively Saturday crowd erupted in cheers — many still buzzing from the upset they had just witnessed in the Grade I Del Mar Oaks presented by Keeneland Sales.

Gonzalez, who had been forced to bide his time in traffic, showed perfect judgment. With the race seemingly slipping away, he darted to the inside turning for home, where a narrow seam opened at just the right moment. Velocity — quickening with all the heart her name promised — shot through like a seasoned campaigner, collaring the leaders and driving clear to win by half a length.

A Perfectly Timed Ride

“She gave me everything,” Gonzalez said afterward, his smile wide. “I just needed the space, and once I saw it, she did the rest. She’s all class.”

Velocity’s victory marked a first Grade I triumph for her trainer, who could barely contain his joy. “I knew she had the talent, but to see her fight like that — it’s the moment you dream of,” he said, voice breaking. “We’re all going to remember this day.”

Behind Velocity, the favorite wilted late under pressure and had to settle for second, while a longshot closed strongly to claim third. The final time for the mile and an eighth on firm turf was sharp, sealing the result as no fluke.

Breeders’ Cup Path Opens

The win places Velocity firmly on the road to the Breeders’ Cup, with the Del Mar Oaks historically a proving ground for fall championship contenders. Connections now have a choice: press on toward the Filly & Mare Turf, or freshen her for a shorter target. Either way, Saturday’s result announced her as a filly of rare quality.

For Gonzalez, the moment was as much about trust as tactics. “She waited, she listened, and when I asked, she answered,” he said. “You can’t ask for more.”

Spotlight Turns to the Pat O’Brien Stakes

Attention now shifts to the Grade II Pat O’Brien Stakes this coming Saturday at Del Mar, where another coveted Breeders’ Cup berth — this time for the Dirt Mile — will be on the line. Fans will return expecting another chapter in what has already been a memorable seaside summer.

As the sun set on Saturday, one truth rang clear: the Del Mar Oaks had given racing not just a winner, but a story. Velocity’s name will be etched into the track’s Grade I roll of honor, and her rider’s daring move to the rail will be remembered as the spark that lit the crowd.

Read more racing stories and past features on RaceBuzz.

Visit the official Del Mar Thoroughbred Club website for entries, results, and event details.

Chapman Faces Tough Test as Racing League Newcastle Showdown Looms

Chapman Cautious Ahead of Crucial Newcastle Test as Rivals Eye Racing League Upset

Matt Chapman was all smiles when London & The South extended their Racing League lead at Windsor last week — but behind the grin lies quiet caution. With Newcastle’s fiercely competitive night five looming on Thursday, August 21, the charismatic team manager knows better than to celebrate early.

London & The South hold a commanding 95-point advantage over The East after amassing a record-breaking 202 points at Windsor, but Chapman isn’t counting his chickens just yet.

“This competition can turn on its head in a single night,” Chapman admitted. “We’ve seen teams rack up 200 points before, so Newcastle could swing towards someone else entirely. I know some mischievous team managers are saying it’s ours to lose — maybe mathematics isn’t their strong suit!”

Newcastle Set for Fiercely Contested Night

Unlike Windsor, where London & The South dominated, all seven Racing League teams will unleash full squads of 14 runners at Newcastle, making it arguably the most competitive fixture of the season.

Chapman has his eyes set on Race 31, where Bragbor (George Scott) and Telepathic (Simon & Ed Crisford) spearhead the charge. Telepathic impressed at Doncaster last time, while Bragbor carries big expectations for the future.

“We also managed to slot in Jessica Macey’s Jenever for the five-furlong Race 33, and he loves it here,” Chapman added. “Richard Hannon’s Witch Hunter looks Group-class in Race 32, and Al Rufaa has unfinished business in Race 34 after just missing out here last year.”

Chapman’s cautious optimism is balanced by calculation:

“If we notch between 70 and 100 points, we should stay on top. But if we falter, I’d rather the lower-ranked teams close in than Charlie Fellowes and The East!”

The East Eyeing a Dramatic Comeback

Charlie Fellowes, manager of The East, refuses to throw in the towel despite the daunting gap. He’s drawing inspiration from Ireland’s stunning turnaround in 2023, when they overturned a 72-point deficit in the final two fixtures to snatch victory from Wales & The West.

“Ninety-five points is big, but Racing League history shows nothing is over until it’s over,” said Fellowes. “We’ve got a strong team heading to Newcastle and favourable draws. If we can close the gap to 40 points before Southwell, we’re right in this.”

The East’s powerful trio from James Fanshawe — Salamanca City (Race 31), Miss Nightfall (Race 32), and Leadenhall Street (Race 35) — will be central to their challenge. Fellowes also highlighted Sir Mark Prescott’s Synergism in Race 29 and his own runner, Ivatt, in Race 30 as key players in their Newcastle arsenal.

Scotland Banking on Mulrennan’s Magic

Sitting third with 446 points, Scotland is quietly confident under manager Alex Steedman, who has leading Newcastle jockey Paul Mulrennan steering several contenders.

Steedman believes Sax Appeal and Chillhi are strong threats in Race 29, while sprint specialists Bonito Cavalo and Lion’s House hold solid claims in Race 33. In Race 34, Steedman tips Titled Kilt as one to watch after an eye-catching Wolverhampton run, with Nikovo also expected to relish Newcastle’s surface.

Racing League Standings After Night Four

Team	Points
London & The South	581
The East	486
Scotland	446
Yorkshire	432
Wales & The West	409
Ireland	358
The North	291

With Newcastle’s full-throttle clash ahead, expect fireworks as teams chase Chapman’s leaders into the home straight.

Conclusion

The Racing League Newcastle 2025 fixture promises high drama, tactical battles, and potential upsets. With London & The South defending a sizeable lead, The East, Scotland, and the chasing pack are throwing everything into the mix. History suggests Chapman’s side can’t afford complacency — Newcastle could yet rewrite the Racing League script.

Explore more horse racing news, previews, and exclusive articles on RaceBuzz.

For full schedules, standings, and updates, visit the official Racing League website

Enola Holmes Captures The Vajra Handicap as RCTC Card Concludes

The Vajra Handicap RCTC 2025 brought the Wednesday meeting at the Royal Calcutta Turf Club (RCTC) to a fitting close on August 20, 2025. Run over 1,400 metres at 5:00 PM, the race produced a fluent winner in Enola Holmes, who gave her supporters a strong finish to the six-race card.

Ridden with poise by Neeraj Rawal and trained by Neil Darashah, Enola Holmes displayed both pace and finishing strength to cross the line in 1:27.082, securing top honours for her owner, M/s Manjri Horse Breeders’ Farm Pvt Ltd.

Finishing second was Wonderful, guided by R Vaibhav for trainer B Mahesh, who stopped the clock at 1:27.518, while third went to Chillilady, ridden by MD Sameer and trained by Shafiq Khan, finishing in 1:28.177.

The fourth spot was claimed by Cashalaika, with A Ashhad Asbar aboard for Shafiq Khan, who timed 1:29.244, while Oromelo, partnered by R S Bhati for Javed Khan, finished fifth in 1:32.389.

The Vajra Handicap RCTC 2025 provided a strong conclusion to the midweek racing card, highlighting Enola Holmes’s ability and consistency. With the August 20 programme complete, attention now shifts to the next RCTC race day on August 27, 2025, where another exciting line-up awaits.

RCTC Races: Kerrygold Sparkles in The Betbricks7 Rising Stars Handicap

The fourth race of the afternoon at the Royal Calcutta Turf Club on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, was The Betbricks7 Rising Stars Handicap, a 1,100-metre sprint for Class IV contenders. Run at 4:00 PM, the race saw a competitive field line up, but it was Kerrygold who delivered a sparkling victory.

Betbricks7 Rising Stars Handicap RCTC 2025 — Full Result

Ridden by Arul J H and trained by Neil Darashah, Kerrygold showed speed and resilience to grab the lead and hold off late challenges, stopping the clock at 1:08.444. The filly is owned by Manjri Horse Breed’s Farm Pvt. Ltd. and Mr. Amitesh Singh, whose colours were carried to a well-earned win.

Just a length and a half behind came Honey Cake, ridden by MD Sameer for trainer Shafiq Khan, timing 1:08.685 to claim second. The third spot went to Jean Lafette, guided by Hasib Alam for trainer B. Mahesh, who finished in 1:09.464.

The fourth place was closely fought, with Bundle of Charm, ridden by Vishal N. Bunde for trainer Sabeel Shariff, finishing in 1:09.578. Fifth home was Fulcrum, with MD Azharuddin in the saddle for Shafiq Khan, stopping the clock at 1:09.679.

The Betbricks7 Rising Stars Handicap lived up to its name, with Kerrygold’s polished effort standing out in a tightly contested sprint. Attention now turns to the next races on the card — The Betbricks7 Play and Win Handicap at 4:30 PM and The Vajra Handicap at 5:00 PM, which promise more drama on a lively afternoon of racing.

Pantazi Rules The Betbricks7 Calcutta Juvenile Sprint

The Royal Calcutta Turf Club’s third race on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, brought forward The Betbricks7 Calcutta Juvenile Sprint, a 1,100-metre test for three-year-olds. Run at 3:30 PM, the race attracted only two contestants, but the clear favourite Pantazi ensured the small field still produced a commanding display of racing quality.

Guided with precision by jockey P. Trevor and trained by Aashay Doctor, Pantazi seized the initiative from the outset and never looked threatened. He crossed the line in 1:05.751, confirming his growing reputation and rewarding his large ownership group comprising Mrs. Menaka Gupta, Mr. Salomone N Benveniste, Mr. Vishal Doctor, Mr. Kamal J Doctor, Mr. Hemang Devendra Doctor, and others.

The only challenger, Star Pride, with P Tejeshwar in the saddle and also trained by Aashay Doctor, trailed at a distance and clocked 1:09.299, finishing a well-beaten second. While the reduced field denied the race any real contest, Pantazi’s professional performance provided the highlight.

Earlier in the day, True Faith had captured The Hovercraft Handicap with a strong ride from Neeraj Rawal, giving trainer Neil Darashah a notable success. Together with Pantazi’s victory in the Juvenile Sprint, the afternoon was beginning to take shape with standout winners emerging from different stables.

Racing enthusiasts can now look forward to the remainder of the midweek programme, which promises more excitement with The Betbricks7 Rising Stars Handicap at 4:00 PM, followed by The Betbricks7 Play and Win Handicap at 4:30 PM, and closing with The Vajra Handicap at 5:00 PM. Each of these contests is expected to add fresh intrigue to a lively racing day.

True Faith Prevails in The Hovercraft Handicap at RCTC

Kolkata’s Royal Calcutta Turf Club (RCTC) witnessed an engaging contest in the day’s second event on Wednesday, August 20, 2025. The Hovercraft Handicap, run over a mile (1600 metres) at 3:00 PM, saw True Faith assert his dominance with a polished performance.

Guided expertly by jockey Neeraj Rawal and trained by Neil Darashah, True Faith produced a strong run to hit the front and maintain his lead comfortably, stopping the clock at 1:39.984. The five-year-old displayed consistency throughout, rewarding his connections with a decisive win.

Jahzara, ridden by R Vaibhav for trainer Bharath Singh, kept on resolutely but had to settle for second, finishing in 1:41.161. Seven lengths adrift came Sea Eagle, partnered by Arul J H and also trained by Neil Darashah, who registered a time of 1:42.291 for the third spot.

The fourth place was filled by Lucky Nine, with Vishal N. Bunde up for trainer B Rajender Reddy, returning 1:44.667. Wordsmith, under A Ashhad Asbar for trainer Dr. Anil Kumar, completed the line-up in 1:45.293.

The Hovercraft Handicap added a steady rhythm to the afternoon card, with True Faith’s victory setting a high bar for the remainder of the programme. Attention now turns to the next race on the card — The Betbricks7 Calcutta Juvenile Sprint, scheduled at 3:30 PM, which promises to deliver another dose of excitement to racing enthusiasts at RCTC.

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Today on

Form that commands respect

Rivals with claims

Earlier handicap adds intrigue

Looking ahead

Finding Strength Gulfstream Park success

Florida Sire Stakes looms large

KerryGold, Winsangel, and Enola Holmes Shine on Thrilling Day at Calcutta Monsoon Races

Winsangel Opens the Day at Calcutta Monsoon Races

True Faith Shines in Hovercraft Handicap at Calcutta Monsoon Races

Pantazi Dominates Betbricks7 Juvenile Sprint at Calcutta Monsoon Races

KerryGold Shines in Betbricks7 Rising Stars Handicap

Main Street Powers Home in Betbricks7 Play and Win Handicap

Enola Holmes Closes the Show in Vajra Handicap

A Day to Remember at Calcutta Monsoon Races

British EBF Strengthens Ebor Festival with £500,000 Support at York

A Festival Steeped in Legacy and Ambition

Emerging Stars from Historic Races

Friday’s Rich Convivial Maiden: Europe’s Finest Two-Year-Old Contest

A Four-Decade Legacy of Support

Conclusion

Velocity Surges Late to Seal Del Mar Oaks Glory

A Perfectly Timed Ride

Breeders’ Cup Path Opens

Spotlight Turns to the Pat O’Brien Stakes

Chapman Cautious Ahead of Crucial Newcastle Test as Rivals Eye Racing League Upset

Newcastle Set for Fiercely Contested Night

The East Eyeing a Dramatic Comeback

Scotland Banking on Mulrennan’s Magic

Racing League Standings After Night Four

Conclusion

Betbricks7 Rising Stars Handicap RCTC 2025 — Full Result

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