The Pune Racecourse witnessed a breathtaking spectacle on Sunday, 12th October 2025, as the much-anticipated Villoo C. Poonawalla Pune Derby (Grade I) unfolded in a pulse-pounding climax of speed, strategy, and sheer equine brilliance. This 2000-metre classic, reserved exclusively for three-year-old Indian horses, became the stage for a masterclass in timing and stamina as Zacharias (J: Vivek G., T: P. Shroff), owned by Mr Vijay B. Shirke, Mrs Vijay B. Shirke, Mr Jay V. Shirke, Mr Marthand Singh Mahindra, Mrs Rina Mahindra & Mr Neville H. Bilpodiwala surged into the annals of Derby history with a victory that left fans and rivals alike in awe.
From the instant the gates sprung open, Zacharias displayed tactical genius. Settling patiently just behind the early pace setters, the colt conserved every ounce of energy, biding his time with the precision of a seasoned strategist, clocking at 2:02:734. The crowd held its collective breath as the race unfolded, the tension mounting with every stride.
Then, with last metres to go, Vivek G. made his move. Angling Zacharias wide for a clear run, he unleashed a devastating turn of foot, slicing past the frontrunners with breathtaking authority. Each powerful stride seemed to echo through the course, the roar of the crowd swelling as the colt surged to an emphatic triumph. Crossing the line with unassailable dominance, Zacharias left no doubt that he was the day’s undisputed star.
Hot on his heels, Gunsmoke (J: Yash Narredu, T: M. Narredu) fought valiantly, pushing the winner to the limit and claiming a well-earned second in 2:03:622. Meanwhile, Superstar (J: A. Prakash, T: P. Shroff) finished strongly to secure the third spot in a dramatic, closely fought finale in 2:03:676 that kept spectators on the edge of their seats.
The applause for Zacharias reverberated across Pune Racecourse, a fitting tribute to a Derby performance that combined poise, power, and unparalleled timing. As the sun dipped and shadows lengthened, eyes now turn to the Jimmy Umrigar Trophy Div II, scheduled for 04:45 PM, a race that promises to continue the Sunday spectacle with equal thrills and drama.
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