A light mist drifted across the Royal Calcutta Turf Club rails at first light, grooms walking their string in steady rhythm, riders adjusting saddles with the nervous confidence that comes only on a big-day card. There is excitement in the air, and it isn’t difficult to see why. The Calcutta 1000 Guineas (Grade III) — the most valuable event of the afternoon with prize money touching Rs.45,43,751 — stands as the glittering centrepiece of the Calcutta race card November 29, an autumn Saturday expected to deliver both brilliance and heartbreak in equal measure. Whispered hopes among trainers, final nods from jockeys, a pat of reassurance on a filly’s shoulder — this is racing at its most alive.
RACE 1 – THE CAMERON HANDICAP (01:30 PM)
The opening race brings a Class V sprint over 1100m, a test where early rhythm often decides fortune. Jet, a four-year-old chestnut filly under Prashanth Thapa, has the early support through morning gallops, but Happy Morning and Horus The Great look capable of applying pressure from the front. Memphis and MSG Fantasy are proven fighters in the lower bands as well, while Lahina and Diamond Gold complete the field — both with enough experience to strike if the tempo falls in their favour.
RACE 2 – THE ALICE SPRINGS HANDICAP DIV I (02:00 PM)
Class IV milers gather for the second test of the day, and No Worry enters with a profile of consistency that trainers admire. Whirlwind — partnered by Suraj Narredu — shapes as the biggest threat, displaying a powerful finishing kick in recent gallops. Cash N Run, Garth, Veneno and Dancing Queen represent seasoned challenges, while Paulite Warrior and Epic Play from the Neil Darashah yard offer emerging potential.
RACE 3 – THE ALICE SPRINGS HANDICAP DIV II (02:30 PM)
The afternoon deepens with another mile contest, the mirror division of Race 2. Victorious Omen, trained by S Waheed and handled by Neeraj Rawal, appeals on progressive form. Zambezi and Cool Daddy bring genuine experience to the table, while Duesenberg — guided by A Prakash — is the one that could improve sharply. Ksepiman, Seina, Power Racer and Simran’s Attitude complete an evenly matched lineup where race rhythm may dictate the closing meters.
RACE 4 – THE ROMANTIC LIAISON HANDICAP (03:00 PM)
A quality field assembles for this Class II mile, and the match-up feels balanced. Main Street travels strongly under P Trevor, but Natural Grace and Aabushan are both capable of turning the finish into a duel. Zarak, seasoned and powerful through the straight, stands as the dark horse. Watch My Stride arrives with race-fit edge — a factor that often proves vital at this grade.
RACE 5 – THE CALCUTTA 1000 GUINEAS (GRADE III) (03:30 PM)
The moment the paddock will fall quiet — the feature of the afternoon. Seven three-year-old fillies, one glittering prize. Conjurer brings presence and scope, but Eleanora with Suraj Narredu in the saddle commands considerable respect, her fluid stride a talking point through the week. Galway Girl and Heart look polished and dangerous, both capable of emerging as late-season stars. Morano and Polka Dot represent the Aashay Doctor yard’s strongest hopes, while Xanthe, ridden by A Sandesh, may prove the ace if she settles early. Expect a stretch run worth remembering — this is the race that could crown a new Classic queen of Kolkata.
RACE 6 – THE SAFARI HANDICAP (04:00 PM)
The closing handicap over 1100m promises a fast, sharp final note. Tycoonist, Lord Vader, Light The World and Dr Doom bring authentic sprint ability, but Seasmoke and Aarini may force the field to stretch early. Dragon’s Gold and Salome remain dangerous if gaps open, while Enola Holmes arrives with the freshness of youth. Mighty Zo, Aldila, Bundle Of Charm, Vivaldi and Lavish Girl complete an oversubscribed sprint that could turn frantic in the final 200 metres — a fitting end to a day loaded with potential.
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