The quality bar was set high in Race 4, The Governor’s Cup, a Class I contest for horses rated 95 and above, run over 1600 metres at 3:00 PM on Friday, 30 January 2026, during the Calcutta Races Winter Meeting (Sixth Day). Rising to the occasion, Casteel produced a composed, authoritative performance to land the feature for trainer Satish Narredu, with A A Vikrant executing a polished ride. Racing for M/s Blazing Saddles (PF), Mr Balam Mohla, Mr S Narredu, Mr Teja Gollapudi & Mr Jehangir H Mehta, the winner underlined his class in decisive fashion. The result added a defining chapter to the Kolkata race result 30 January, reflecting the depth and competitiveness of the afternoon’s elite fare.
From the break, the Governor’s Cup unfolded at a genuine tempo, with the field settling quickly into rhythm. Casteel travelled with purpose through the early and middle stages, conserving energy before being asked to lengthen approaching the final bend. When Vikrant pressed the button, the response was immediate—Casteel found a telling change of gear, straightened up with momentum, and asserted his authority in the run home to settle the issue without drama.
King Louis stayed on gamely to claim the runner-up honours under Vishal N Bunde for trainer Neil Darashah, keeping the winner honest through the stretch. Raffaello, partnered by Vinod Shinde and prepared by Aashay Doctor, finished resolutely in third, completing a high-quality trifecta befitting a Class I examination.
With the Governor’s Cup decided, attention at Kolkata now turns to the next engagement on the card—the Castlebridge Handicap at 3:30 PM, as the Winter Meeting continues to deliver compelling racing at the top end.
Stay tuned to RaceBuzz for live updates and full coverage of the Kolkata Winter Meeting.