The 1st race of the Pune Meeting 2025 – The A. J. Wadia Plate, a Class V contest for Indian horses five years old and over rated 1 to 26, set the tone for an exciting Special Race Day on Friday, 24th October 2025. Run over 1400 metres at 01:30 PM, the race saw Lion King (J: C. Umesh) deliver a resolute performance for trainer Shazaan Shah, stopping the clock at 1:26:477. Racing in the silks of M/s Amit R. Mehta, Narendra Kumar Ambwani & Ketan R. M, Lion King asserted authority to secure a well-deserved victory and open the day’s proceedings in style.
Breaking smartly from the gates, Lion King settled comfortably just off the pace before unleashing a decisive run in the final furlong. Jockey C. Umesh’s confident handling and perfect timing ensured the gelding surged clear in the closing strides, leaving the field trailing as he maintained a strong gallop to the wire. Trainer Shazaan Shah’s preparation was evident, with Lion King displaying both fitness and composure throughout the trip.
The runner-up honours went to Yuletide (J: Mustakim Alam, T: Narendra Lagad), who clocked 1:26:810 after a determined chase that fell just short in the final strides. Marlboro Man (J: Antony Raj S., T: Subhag Singh) claimed the third spot with a time of 1:27:527, rounding off a closely contested finish among the top three.
With the curtain-raiser delivering a thrilling start, anticipation now builds for the upcoming Maddox Plate at 02:00 PM, promising yet another gripping contest in the Pune racing lineup.
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