Desert God ridden by David Allan wins The Indian Turf Invitation Cup 2016

David Allan produced another top drawer effort on the Champion of Champions. The leading 'Knight' who has struck a win-all partnership with Desert God piloted the champion despite suffering a painful ankle ligament tear at the jump on Lord Darlington on Saturday. David disclosed that though the ankle hurt he was not going to miss out on the big ride.
David knew that the gain in sight was much bigger than the pain and he pulled himself up and he did it. It was champion stuff and the Chennai racing buffs provided the winners a standing ovation despite the fact that the sentimental favourite Be Safe could only finish third in his comeback trial.
Quasar rightly opened the even-money favourite in the big match-up before money came pouring in on Be Safe and Desert God too had a fair share of his supporters who simply believed that the four kilos advantage the younger horses enjoy in this champion event works to their advantage. It again proved right, Quasar in a class of his own going down after maintain a record winning streak in the last 10 months. Though many were of the view that had the connections of Quasar chosen a more experienced and a more powerful rider for the summit clash the all-time great would have posted his second straight Invitation success, it must be mentioned that the young Yash Narredu who has struck a winning partnership with Quasar produced another fine effort and none could have done better.
The best looking contestant in the parade ring was the local main hope Be Safe. He attracted big local support and that was reflected in the betting ring, the Robert Foley ward closing at (9/4) after opening at (9/2). Though Be Safe Safe showed tremendous improvement over his efforts during the summer season in Bangalore while nosing out the double Derby winner Angel Dust for the third spot, it was clear that the Indian Derby winner requires more time and space to regain the fitness and form that he paraded in Mumbai last year.
Padmanabhan while lauding the effort of David said that he was confident that Desert God would emerge on top as the strong colt enjoyed his travel and was only getting better and better after each fight.
"David Allan rode a splendid race and was able to win the battle of wits against a super horse like Quasar." said S Padmanabhan who began his career as a trainer at Chennai in the 80s.

[@udayprasad8037]

Desert god .. Powerful engine

[@shivsingh7646]

David Allan was injured, but still he took the ride, what a ride 👏 👌

[@vickyjohn4073]

Be safe is the best...

[@surajnarredu7024]

Quasar was best

[@mrigankaroy6033]

Sir cecil punjabi girl Corfe Castle

[@mrigankaroy6033]

1400/1200

[@razzz999]

the commentary is of the lowest quality, he calls quasar as smart strider!! joker....

[@SG-tf7co]

What horrible commentary.... 🤦‍♂️