The Pune Races August 16 card concluded with the Magansingh P. Jodha Trophy (1400m, Maiden for 3-year-olds), where Merlet (J: Mukesh Kumar, T: S. Waheed) produced a strong late run to secure her first career win in impressive fashion.
Merlet delivers maiden success in The Magansingh P. Jodha Trophy
Bred in the purple by Leitir Mor (IRE) – Merletta (GB), Merlet finally delivered on her early promise with a fluent performance over the 1400m trip. Ridden confidently by Mukesh Kumar, she stalked the leaders before quickening inside the final furlong to put the race to bed, crossing the wire in 1:27.084 with 2 ¼ lengths to spare.
Jackson (J: A. Sandesh / T: Dallas Todywalla) tried hard to make a race of it and finished second, just three-fourths of a length ahead of Tyrannus (J: P. Trevor / T: Imtiaz A. Sait), who stayed on late to grab third.
For trainer S. Waheed, this was a rewarding moment as Merlet showcased her potential to progress further during the Pune Meeting 2025. The manner of her win suggested she has the scope to compete in stronger company as the season unfolds at Pune Racecourse.
With this maiden triumph, Merlet announced herself as a filly of substance, and connections will be buoyed by her ability to stay the trip strongly while displaying a neat turn of foot.
In conclusion, the Pune Races August 16 closed on a high note, with Merlet stamping her presence in the Magansingh P. Jodha Trophy and giving her supporters plenty to look forward to in the weeks ahead.
The day’s racing at Pune closed with The Waves of Glory Plate, where emerging contenders battled over 1200m in a competitive finish at Pune Racecourse.
