Bangalore, July 15th, 2014: The time has come yet again for the most awaited stellar attractions of the racing season. One of the most prestigious events in the Indian racing calendar, the exalted Kingfisher Derby 2014 was held in the grounds of Bangalore Turf Club today with the presence of more than 25,000 people. An extravaganza where glamour and sports came together; where the rich and famous came dressed in the best of attires to watch the most famous horses of the country- the Kingfisher Derby was a treat to watch for one and all.
The Kingfisher Derby has become more than a venue for horse power. True to its brand association, it also showcases entertainment as a definite character and has always been a must attend, must-be-seen-at event for all racing aficionados. Amongst the throng of huge crowds gathered at the Bangalore Turf Club who cheered for their favourite horses, the “Kingfisher Derby 2014” was the 12th race in line. The filly which was a clear favourite this year – Be Safe, set expectations right by winning the coveted race! The three-year-old colt from M.A.M. Ramaswamy’s stable. The colt, which had won five of the six races it had participated in, added the Kingfisher Derby to its record — fetching Mr. Ramaswamy whopping Rs. 1.5 crore. Ridden by jockey Suraj Narredu, Be Safe took all of 2 minutes and 12 seconds to complete the 2,000-m derby, just a slip away from the record of 2 minutes and 2 seconds.
Daksh Oberoi, Racing Manager and Co-Owner at Master Racing Pvt Ltd., who had his horse participating in the race said, “Derby is Jewel is the crown of Horse Racing World. “A Classic is never simple” it was Derby Weekend At Bangalore which is one the best events in this racing world. Enjoyed a power packed weekend with High stakes, Glitz, Glamour and Heart throbbing races, for the most sporting glamorous event.”
Started in the year 1988, this is the 21st year of Kingfisher Derby. The Kingfisher Derby has the second highest prize money being given out in the country and was the first ever sponsorship by a corporate at the Bangalore Turf Club. Kingfisher Derby is more than a venue for horse power. True to its brand association, it also showcases entertainment as a definite character. Various events that are organized in and around the main race, makes Kingfisher Derby a must attend, must-be-seen-at event.
Minister for Housing M. H. Amarnath (Ambareesh), a regular at the derby, was seen cheering his pick and guiding others place their bet. Bellary MLA and mining baron Anil Lad, Kannada actor Rishika Singh, Flim actress Kriti Kharbanda Socialite and Singer Behram Siganporia, and retired IPS officer Jeeja Hari Singh were also present at the turf club.
Samar Singh Sheikhawat, senior vice-president, Marketing, United Breweries Ltd., in a press release said: “Known as the ‘King of all Derbies’, the excitement and thrill of the Kingfisher Derby is unmatched. It is spectacular to see Bangaloreans coming together to celebrate the regal sport.”