Stormy Princess wins 'DNA 'Salver

Thirteen contenders lined up for the DNA Salver, a race recognition of the media partnership between DNA and the Royal Western India Turf Club (RWITC). It has been happening in the last three editions that the tote favourite took the beating as Stormy Princess went on to win the race from Zoom Zoom at the Pune Racecourse on Sunday.

Among the contenders, Que Sera Sera, the colt from Adhirasingh Jodha turned out to be the public choice and drew attention in this seven-furlong event. But that was not to be, as Stormy Princess, a filly from CD Katrak’s stable which was placed 7th when the race started, emerged the winner.

Winds Of North was the last to get into the gates and as the race settled, it was Zoom Zoom who was the initial leader. A Sandesh handled this gelding well and set the pace. Zoom Zoom was close behind the leader in the race, which for many was an open affair.

Sun Salutation was among the three others favoured to win this third edition of DNA’s race.

Ironically, this filly from champion trainer Pesi Shroff’s stable was nowhere in the reckoning and was placed 9th at the 1,000-metre mark and perished with Zoom Zoom having full command with over four lengths ahead of Que Sera Sera, which showed some signs of pace.

Coming from the yard of trainer MK Jadhav, Zoom Zoom faded as the race passed the 200-metre mark to the winning post and Stormy Princess raced past the leader and raced home with much to spare.