The pace picked up quickly on the 16th day of the Bangalore Summer Meeting as The Commanche Plate, a 1200-metre dash for horses rated 00 to 25, got underway at 2:30 pm. With ₹4,50,000 in total prize money, the race offered an early opportunity for lesser-rated runners to make their mark — and one did so in style.
Empress Bella claimed top honours with a sharp, front-running performance under C. Umesh, trained by Kishan Thomas K. The runner crossed the finish in 1:14.72, confidently securing the win while racing in the colours of Mr. Srinivasa M. The outing reflected a combination of smart positioning and steady pace on a surface rated as “good going.”
Finishing in second was Flamingo Dream, trained by S. Inayathulla and ridden by Darshan N, who kept the pressure on until the closing stages, clocking 1:14.94. The duo delivered a strong late effort, but couldn’t quite catch the leader.
Striking Eyes, saddled by V. Lokanath and partnered by Vivek G., rounded off the placings in 1:15.10, keeping on gamely in the straight and showing consistency.
With The Commanche Plate setting the afternoon in motion, focus now turns to the upcoming race, The R R Byramji Memorial Million (Div I). More action awaits at the Bangalore Turf Club, where the day continues to unfold with plenty of excitement.
