The Royal Calcutta Turf Club (RCTC) will present a thoughtfully balanced six-race programme on Saturday, 20 December 2025, highlighted by one of the season’s most anticipated classic contests. Race No. 5, THE USHA STUD CALCUTTA OAKS (2025) – Grade III, to be run over 2400 metres for a commanding prize purse of Rs. 32,45,000, will anchor the afternoon and draw national attention to Kolkata’s winter racing stage, standing as the emotional and competitive focal point of the day.
The afternoon will get underway at 01:30 PM with Race No. 01, THE INS HOOGHLY CUP, a brisk 1200-metre sprint carrying Rs. 4,00,000 in prize money. As the opening race, it will set the tone for the day, demanding early speed and sharp execution, while offering connections an immediate opportunity to stamp their presence on the card.
At 02:00 PM, the tempo will shift with Race No. 02, THE NAVY CUP, contested over 1600 metres for a stake of Rs. 5,00,000. This race will call for balance between pace and endurance, rewarding runners capable of settling early and producing a sustained effort through the decisive stages.
The emphasis on stamina will increase at 02:30 PM with Race No. 03, THE MISTY MELODY HANDICAP, a searching 2400-metre contest offering Rs. 4,00,000 in prize money. Often a race that tests patience and judgement, it will require riders to time their moves with precision as the field stretches out over the longer trip.
At 03:00 PM, the programme will progress to Race No. 04, THE STATUE OF LIBERTY HANDICAP, another 2400-metre assignment, this time for a richer purse of Rs. 5,50,000. Positioned just before the feature event, this race will add depth and competitive edge to the card, further sharpening the staying narrative of the afternoon.
All eyes will then turn to 03:30 PM for Race No. 05, THE USHA STUD CALCUTTA OAKS (2025) – Grade III, the centrepiece of the day. Run over the classic 2400-metre distance and offering Rs. 32,45,000 in prize money, the Oaks will represent far more than a race — it will embody months of preparation, ambition, and the pursuit of lasting recognition on one of Indian racing’s most respected stages.
The day’s proceedings will conclude at 04:00 PM with Race No. 06, THE TIGER TOPS HANDICAP, a competitive 1400-metre contest with Rs. 3,00,000 at stake. As the final chapter of the afternoon, it will provide one last burst of energy and unpredictability, ensuring the card closes on a lively and engaging note.
With a harmonious blend of speed, stamina, and classic prestige, the Royal Calcutta Turf Club’s Saturday fixture is set to deliver a race day rich in narrative and competitive spirit, culminating in a Grade III classic that will define the afternoon and resonate well beyond the finishing post.
The Calcutta race cards 20 December promise a classic afternoon at RCTC, where endurance, timing, and tradition will shape each contest.
For more stories, results, and updates from the world of horse racing, stay tuned to RaceBuzz.