Favourites falter as underdogs shine at LRC

 Favourites falter as underdogs shine at LRC

Asher Butt

A day of dramatic upsets unfolded at the Lahore Race Club on Sunday, with only three favorites managing to secure wins while longshots dominated most races, including the two major events of the day.

The spotlight fell on unexpected winners Baaeed and Trigger, who left racing pundits stunned, while Generosity, Jack, and Swift Retort delivered remarkable performances throughout the day.

The day began with favorite Raftar demonstrating its prowess, while American Star and Abdullah Champion surprised with second and third-place finishes respectively.

Generosity orchestrated the first major upset in the second race, followed by Zuza in second and Zaman Sahib claiming an unexpected third position. The surprises continued as underdog Jack outpaced favorite Dubawi's Angel, while place-favorite Zarbi secured third.

In the Christmas Cup, Baaeed emerged victorious in an unexpected triumph, with Dilbar and Nostalgic completing the podium.

The main event, the Toyota 2000 Guineas of Pakistan Cup, saw Trigger producing the day's biggest upset, while favorite Sardar settled for second and Prodigal Rain surprised with third.

Moni claimed the sixth race, with strong contender Kit Kat taking second and Secret Lover finishing third. The day concluded with Karachi's Swift Retort winning the final race, followed by favorites Suspicious One and Yestaryear in second and third positions respectively.

The article accurately reflects the race results and maintains good journalistic style. The new headline better captures the day's theme of favorites being upset by underdogs.

 

 

LRC results December 22, 2024

 

1st race: Raftar, American Star, Abdullah Champion, Naveed-e-Sehar

2nd race: Generosity, Zuza, Zaman Sahib, Dil Nasheen

3rd race: Jack, Dubawai's Angle, Zarbi, Blazing Fire

4th Christmas Cup race: Baaeed, Dilbar, Nostalgic, Gondal

5th Toyota 2000 Guineas of Pakistan race: Trigger, Sardar, Prodigal Rain, Verde One

6th race: Moni, Secret Lover, Kit Kat, Qalandar

7th race: Swift Retort, Suspicious One, Yesteryear, Farhan Prince

LRC set to host Christmas Cup, 2000 Guineas of Pakistan Cup today

 LRC set to host Christmas Cup, 2000 Guineas of Pakistan Cup today

Asher Butt

LAHORE: Lahore Race Club is all set to host an action-packed day of racing today (Sunday), featuring two prestigious events — the Christmas Cup and the 2000 Guineas of Pakistan Cup — among a total of seven thrilling races. Both cup races, set over distances of 1200 and 1600 meters respectively, are the main attractions, while race six, a maiden run, also promises excitement with its 1200-meter challenge. The day is rounded out by five competitive Atia Plate races.

 

The opening Atia Plate, a Class VII Division VI&VII race, has 13 contenders, with Jhanbaz as the favorite. Raftar is expected to secure second place, while a surprise performance could come from Tango To Fire. Other participants include Bilal Prince, Jawad Love, Ok Queen, Naveed-e-Sahar, Macs, American Star, Jalthal, Abdullah Champion, Latin Storm, and Flokey.

 

The second race, a Class VII Division V&VI event, has Yes Commander as the frontrunner, closely followed by Generosity, while Zuza might spring a surprise. The remaining lineup includes Emerging Star, Sarparast, Zaman Sahib, Dil Nasheen, Al Mabrook, and Vartika.

 

In the third race, a Class VII Division III&IV contest, Dubawi's Angel is the favorite, with Kuwait Edition and Zarbi posing significant challenges. Potential threats also come from Black Master, Black Bird, Welcome Sardar, Jack, Moon One, and Blazing Fire.

 

The fourth race, the much-anticipated Christmas Cup, is a term race for two-year-olds, featuring Baaeed, Gondal One, Nostalgic, Dilbar, and Parlay For Two. No clear favorite has emerged, making this a highly unpredictable and exciting contest.

 

The fifth race, the Toyota 2000 Guineas of Pakistan Cup, another term race for three-year-olds, sees Trigger as the standout favorite, with Sardar and Prodigal Rain expected to secure podium finishes. Other competitors include Dawn To Dusk, Desert Crown, Feel My Love, Public Star, Verde One, and Manal.

 

Race six, a Class VII Division II maiden race, has Specialist leading the predictions, with Kit Kat as a strong contender. Secret Lover may deliver an upset, while Qalandar, Black Magic, Debate Princess, Moni, and G-Three complete the field.

 

The final race, a Class VII Division I competition, features seven competitors. Suspicious One is the favorite, followed by Flight Line and Farhan Prince, while Swift Retort (KRC), Addar, Big Dream, and Yestaryear could spring surprises.

 

With a stellar lineup of races and participants, today promises a memorable day for racing enthusiasts at Lahore Race Club.

PSB DG Yasir Pirzada stresses transparency in POA elections

 PSB DG Yasir Pirzada stresses transparency in POA elections

Asher Butt

The Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) has reaffirmed its stance of non-interference in the upcoming elections of the Pakistan Olympic Association (POA), while emphasizing the importance of transparency and adherence to International Olympic Committee (IOC) charter and regulations.

Addressing the Sports Journalists Association of Lahore (SJAL) at the National Hockey Stadium, Lahore, PSB Director General Yasir Pirzada highlighted key measures aimed at promoting sports in Pakistan, including the successful conclusion of the Quaid-e-Azam Games.

Pirzada raised concerns regarding the POA's electoral college, calling for clarity and compliance with the IOC Charter. "We respect the Lausanne Agreement and remain committed to ensuring fairness without disrupting the electoral process," he said. He reiterated that the PSB’s role is not to interfere but to ensure transparency in processes that shape Pakistan’s sports governance.

Stressing the government’s right to accountability, Pirzada disclosed that federations receiving public funds are now required to provide detailed audit reports. While many have complied, the names of federations failing to meet these requirements will soon be published online.

"The government provides funding for the development of sports, and it’s only fair to demand accountability for every rupee spent," he remarked.

In a move aimed at bolstering integrity in team selections, Pirzada announced that federations must share merit-based details of their squads before securing No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for international events.

Dispelling perceptions of inadequate facilities for athletes, the DG PSB outlined the board’s efforts to identify and nurture talented individuals for international competitions. "Our athletes are equipped with world-class facilities, and we are committed to ensuring their growth and success on the global stage," he added.

The event concluded with SJAL officials presenting Yasir Pirzada a commemorative shield as a token of appreciation for his efforts in promoting sports and fostering transparency in sports administration.

“The PSB’s focus on accountability, merit, and athlete development marks a positive step toward enhancing the credibility and performance of Pakistan’s sports sector,” believes SJAL.

 

Desert Crown springs surprise in Begum Bilquis Edhi Cup of LRC

 Desert Crown springs surprise in Begum Bilquis Edhi Cup of LRC

Asher Butt

The Lahore Race Club witnessed a day of dramatic horse racing on Sunday, with Desert Crown delivering the biggest upset of the day in the Begum Bilquis Edhi Cup, while two other surprise victories and three favorite wins marked the event.

The day began with Awan Di Shan claiming victory in the opening race, with Gifts Of Gold securing a place and Jhanbaz completing the top three in an unexpected turn of events.

Sarparast surprised spectators in the second race, with Falco taking an unexpected place and Dil Nasheen claiming another position.

The third race saw Love Love living up to expectations, with Kuwait Edition securing a place and Deedawer finishing third.

The highlight of the day was the Begum Bilquis Edhi Cup, where Desert Crown stunned onlookers with a win. Speed Of Fire claimed a surprising place, while favorites Dawn To Dusk and Acknowledge ended in a dead heat for third position.

Khushbash made a dramatic late surge, pulling ahead in the final furlong to claim victory. Specialist finished second, with Luna Afzaal taking third place.

The final race saw Victoria making a rapid return to claim the win, with Gennie and M S Spirit providing surprise performances in the place and third positions respectively.

The day's racing proved once again that in horse racing, anything can happen, with underdogs and favorites alike showcasing their unpredictable nature on the track. 

Begum Bilquis Edhi Cup highlights packed card of LRC

Begum Bilquis Edhi Cup highlights packed card of LRC

Asher Butt

The Lahore Race Club's 16th day winter meeting featured an exciting lineup, headlined by the prestigious Begum Bilquis Edhi Cup race for today (Sunday).

In the opening Aberdonian Plate Class VII Division-VII event, the favorites Jhanbaz, Gifts of Gold, and Naveed-e-Sahar are expected to feature prominently, with Awan Di Shan, Abdullah Champion, Latin Storm, Rafter, Flokey, and I Shall Lead also posing potential challenges.

The second race, Aberdonian Plate Class VII Division-IV, V & VI, is anticipated to see Al Mabrook, Dil Nasheen, and a surprise challenge from Jashn-e-Baharan, with Lalay De Jan, Falco, Sarparast, Bilal Prince, Tango To Fire, Star Crown and Macs also in the mix.

The third Aberdonian Plate Class VII Division-III&IV race could witness Kuwait Edition, Timeline, and Love Love battling for the top positions, while Dubawi's Angel, Deedavar, Arcadian, Great One, and Black Bird complete the field.

The main event of the day, the Begum Bilquis Edhi Cup, a Class VII Division-I&II race, is expected to see Acknowledge lead the charge, with Dawn To Dusk and a potential surprise from Speed of Fire. Addar, Khokhar One, Desert Crown, Shakira, and Naymar round out the eight-horse field.

The Class VII Division-II maiden race, the fifth event, is tipped to see Luna Afzal and Amanah Noor battle for the top spots, with Flash, Prince of Dawaud, Qalandar, Khushbash, Imperius, Specialist, and G-Three also in the rank.

The final race of the day, the Aberdonian Plate Class VII Division-IV&V, is projected to see Vitoria lead the way, with Public City and a potential upset from Putin. M.S.Spirit, Moon One, Emerging Star, and Gennie complete the lineup.

With a packed card of six races, the 16th day of the Lahore winter meeting promises an exciting day of racing action for the enthusiasts.

2nd Chief of Army Staff National Inter-Club Hockey from Dec 20

 2nd Chief of Army Staff National Inter-Club Hockey from Dec 20

Asher Butt

LAHORE: The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has unveiled details of the Second Chief of Army Staff National Inter-Club Hockey Championship, set to commence on December 20th, with an ambitious plan to rejuvenate the national sport.

PHF Secretary and Olympic medalist Rana Mujahid Ali revealed during a press conference that the tournament will feature an unprecedented 800 registered hockey clubs from across the country, marking a significant milestone for Pakistani hockey.

Detailing tournament structure, he  said the championship will unfold in four meticulously planned stages. Starting from District Level from December 20 to January 5, 2025 and will be followed by Divisional and Regional Level from January 8 to 13.

The Provincial Level tournament will start from January 15 to 22 and then the National Level championship will be played from February 3 to 15.

Elaborating on qualification details, Rana stated that ten teams will move up for the national-level matches while the provincial breakdown of qualified teams includes four from Punjab, two each from Sindh and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa while one each from Balochistan, Islamabad, Azad Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan.

Highlights several crucial aspects of the championship, Rana Mujahid Ali emphasized: “The tournament is part of a strategic plan to revive Pakistan's national sport.” He further added that all expenses will be covered by the Pakistan Army with a primary objective is to discover and nurture new talent.

“The championship aims to provide a professional platform for young hockey players,” he believed.

“The PHF expressed profound gratitude to Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir for his unwavering support in organizing the championship. The involvement of the military is seen as a significant boost to sports development in the country,” he maintained.

Olympic medalists Asif Bajwa, National Team Head Coach Tahir Zaman, and Olympian Anjum Saeed were present at the press conference, signaling the high-profile nature of the event and the commitment to elevating Pakistani hockey.

“The PHF remains optimistic that this inter-club championship will be a crucial step in identifying and grooming potential national team players, ultimately restoring Pakistan's historic reputation in international hockey.”

“The first-stage matches will be conducted at the district level, progressing through regional and provincial stages, with the national-level matches scheduled to take place at the National Hockey Stadium. Club registration opens on December 15 and will continue until further notice,” he added.

“The Second Chief of Army Staff National Inter-Club Hockey Championship represents a comprehensive effort to reinvigorate hockey at the grassroots level, providing a structured pathway for emerging talent to shine on a national platform,” he concluded.

Upsets dominate at LRC as favourites struggle

 Upsets galore at LRC as favourites struggle

 

Asher Butt

LAHORE: The Lahore Race Club witnessed a dramatic day of racing on Sunday, with four unexpected results out of six events, while favourites Zuza and Public Star managed to uphold their reputations in their respective contests.

 

The opening race set the tone for the day as Zuza met expectations, claiming first place with ease. Naveed-e-Sehar surprised spectators by finishing second, while Jahanbaz, on a fluke, secured third place.

 

In the second race, Agha Prince pulled off the first upset of the day, crossing the finish line ahead of the expected second-place finisher Yes Commander. Favourite Al Mabrook, despite high expectations, managed only third place.

 

The third race saw the highly anticipated Public Star live up to its billing, emerging as the star performer. The runner-up spot went to an unexpected Zarbi, with Kuwait Edition completing the podium in third.

 

The day’s most shocking outcome came in the fourth race when Trigger delivered a stunning victory in the seven-furlong event, setting a record time of 1 minute and 23 seconds. Prodigal Rain added to the surprises by claiming second place, while the dark horse Sardar finished third.

 

Another upset unfolded in the fifth race as Feel My Love, under jockey Awais Anjum, stormed to victory. Farhan Prince claimed the runner-up spot unexpectedly, while the favourite Suspicious One could only manage third.

 

The final race of the day provided a fitting end to the dramatic proceedings. Short tail Shakira battled hard to secure victory, with Black Tiger finishing second on a fluke, and Winx, an expected top contender, settling for third place.

  

Sunday's events highlighted the unpredictable nature of horse racing, with long shots stealing the spotlight and delivering thrilling performances against the odds. The surprises underscored the challenge for punters and the excitement for fans at the Lahore Race Club.

Lahore Race Club hosts 15th winter meeting with six exciting races

 Lahore Race Club Hosts 15th Winter Meeting with Six Exciting Races

Asher Butt

The Lahore Race Club is all set to host its 15th winter meeting today (Sunday), featuring a six-race card filled with thrilling competitions. With five Khyber Plates and one Naran Plate on the schedule, the day promises action-packed races that will keep enthusiasts on the edge of their seats.

Race 1: Khyber Plate (Class VII, Division VI & VII)

The opening race of the day sees Mafnood JR as the favorite to claim victory, with Zuza likely to place and Jhanbaz poised as a potential upset. The remaining contenders include Macs, Naveed-e-Sahar, Awais Prince, Ideology, Well Regard, Abdullah Champion, Gifts of Gold, Latin Strom, Raftar, Flokey, and I Shall Lead.

Race 2: Khyber Plate (Class VII, Division V & VI)

Al Mabrook emerges as the frontrunner in the second race, with Yes Commander and Zaman Sahib tipped as strong competitors. The other horses in the field include Lalay De Jan, Dil Nasheen, Agha Prince, Sarparast, Tango To Fire, and Star Crown.

Race 3: Khyber Plate (Class VII, Division III & IV)

Kuwait Edition is expected to lead the pack in the third race, with Putin and Public Star likely to follow as key challengers. Also in contention are Black Bird, Welcome Sardar, Zarbi, and Moon One, making this race one to watch closely.

Race 4: Naran Plate (Class VI)

The fourth race of the day, the only Naran Plate, features Trigger as the favorite, with Echelon likely to provide stiff competition. Sardar is tipped as a potential dark horse. The field also includes Leisure Trip, Royal Salute, Golden Markel, Prodigal Rain, Money Heist, and Brooklyn.

Race 5: Khyber Plate (Class VII, Division I)

Suspicious One is anticipated to secure the top spot in the fifth race, with Feel My Love and Acknowledge expected to follow. Other contenders include Addar, Desert Crown, Flight Line, Fathan Prince, and Maxi Macs.

Race 6: Khyber Plate (Class VII, Division II)

The final race of the day sees National Colour as the likely winner, with Winx and Black Tiger positioned to pose significant challenges. Additional competitors include Neymar, Qalandar, Flash, Moni, Moni Prince, G-Three, and Shakira.

An Exciting Day of Racing

Each race brings its own unique set of challenges and opportunities for surprises, making this winter meeting an unmissable event for racing fans. With top contenders and dark horses in the mix, the day promises a thrilling spectacle at the Lahore Race Club.

Favourites and underdogs shine alike at LRC

 Favourites and underdogs shine at LRC

Statesman claims Malik Hamid Ali Noon Memorial Cup

Asher Butt

LAHORE: An exhilarating day of racing unfolded at the Lahore Race Club, where favourites lived up to their reputations and underdogs exceeded expectations on Sunday. The highlight of the event was Statesman’s commanding victory in the Malik Hamid Ali Noon Memorial Cup, securing its place as the day’s standout performer.

 

The action began with the opening race, where Sarparast, the favourite, dominated the field to claim first place. Jhanbaz and Raftar surprised spectators by securing the second and third positions, respectively.

In the second race, Gennie, considered an outsider, pulled off a remarkable victory, with Gifts of Gold and Amigo surprising everyone by finishing second and third.

 

The third race saw Awais Love live up to expectations with a well-deserved win, while Al Mabrook and Zaman Sahib impressed by finishing second and third.

 

In the marquee fourth race, Statesman lived up to its reputation, clinching the Malik Hamid Ali Noon Memorial Cup. Baaeed followed closely in second place, and Nostalgic secured third, narrowly ahead of Princess Sara.

 

Brooklyn delivered a surprise victory in the fifth race, showcasing a strong finish. Flying Fire, as expected, claimed second place, while Timeline settled for third.

The sixth race was a showcase for new talent, with maiden appearances dominating the podium. Sarkar Raj led the pack, passing Set In Stone, who finished second, while Amanah Noor came in third.

 

The seventh race unfolded as predicted, with Gul-e-Jalal taking first place. Kuwait Edition and Deedawer followed in second and third positions.

The day concluded with the eighth race, where Victoria justified her favourite status with a confident win, while Zarbi and Generosity secured the second and third spots, respectively.

 

The event highlighted the depth of talent and unpredictability of the sport, providing spectators with a thrilling and memorable day at the races.

Excitement builds with eight race card at LRC for Sunday

Excitement builds with eight race card at LRC for Sunday

Asher Butt

LAHORE: The 14th day winter meeting of the Lahore Race Club promises an action-packed Sunday with eight thrilling races, including three maiden contests and six plates.

The highlight of the day is the Malik Hamid Ali Noon Memorial Cup, a term race for two-year-old Thoroughbred and Half-Bred horses making their debut over 1200 meters.

The opening race, the Tuman Khan Plate (Class VII, Division-VI & VII), features 13 runners, with Sarparast as the favorite, Maika Jan expected for place, and Latin Storm poised for a surprise. Other Contenders are Awais Prince, Smart Fighter, Jhanbaz, Well Regard, Abdullah The Great, Elon Musk, Rafter, Flokey, Miss Shelby, Mustang.

The second race, another maiden affair, sees Anni Power leading predictions, with Amigo and Ehsan Queen as strong contenders. The field also includes Gennie, Star Crown, Mafnood JR, Mags, Pride of Chandral, Jallal, Gifts of Gold.

In the third race (Class VII, Division-V & VI), Awais Love is the top pick, with Agha Prince and Zaman Sahib close behind. Remaining field has Tango To Fire, Al Mashook, Stardom, Drago.

The Malik Hamid Ali Noon Memorial Cup includes promising debutants Baaeed, Loud And Clear, Nostalgic, Statesman, Luna Afzal, and Princess Sara.

The fifth race (Class VII, Division-III & IV) has Hamas as the favorite, followed by Flying Fire and Flight Line. Competition may also come from Khokar One, Haidar Prince, Brooklyn, Naymar, Western Lady, Wyne, Moni Prince, and Husn-e-Behram.

The sixth race (Class VII, Division-II) is another maiden contest, featuring Hero, Sarkar Raj, Princess Noor, Gabriela, G-Three with no clear favorite.

The seventh race (Class VII, Division-III & IV) highlights Kuwait Edition as the front-runner, while Gul-e-Jalal and Timeline could offer stiff competition. Other Contenders are Deedava, Black Bird, Shareeka, M.S. Spirit, Treasure Trap, and Jack.

The final race of the day (Class VII, Division-IV & V) sees Zarbi as the favorite, with Vitoria and Yes Commander vying for the top spots alongside nine other contenders which are Public City, Lalay De Jan, Blazing Fire, Self Belle, Generosity, Jashn-e-Baharan, and Dil Nasheen.

With seasoned runners and debutants competing, the day promises excitement and surprises for racing enthusiasts, especially in the much-anticipated Malik Hamid Ali Noon Memorial Cup, which remains the crown jewel of the day, showcasing young talent in a maiden 1200-meter run.

Spectators can expect a blend of experience, strategy, and surprises as these skilled thoroughbreds vie for glory at the Lahore Race Club.

Favourites shine with upsets adding thrill at Lahore Race Club

 Favourites shine with upsets adding thrill at Lahore Race Club

 

Asher Butt

The Lahore Race Club witnessed an action-packed day on Sunday as favourites dominated most of the eight-race card. However, the event wasn’t without surprises, with three unexpected upsets adding to the excitement.

 

In the three feature races, Quality Street and Dhafir justified their favourites’ tags with commanding wins in the Khalid Bin Waleed Cup and the Tariq Aziz Memorial Cup, respectively. However, the Royal Hero Cup took an unexpected turn as Veste One stunned the crowd by defeating heavily favoured contenders. Hamas and Maxi Macs secured second and third positions in the race, further shaking predictions.

 

The day began with Zain Prince clinching victory in the opening race, overcoming long odds. Sarparast and Malka Jan followed in second and third positions, respectively. In the second race, Drago delivered a dominant performance, while Naveed-e-Sahar and Gifts Of Gold secured the next two spots, with Naveed-e-Sahar emerging as a surprise runner-up. The third race saw Kuwait Edition, originally a place contender, rise to victory. Pocket Power secured second place, and Yes Commander claimed an unexpected third position.

 

The Khalid Bin Waleed Cup solidified Quality Street’s status as a favourite, with Trigger finishing second and Prodigal Rain delivering a surprise by taking third place. Similarly, the Tariq Aziz Memorial Cup witnessed Dhafir winning as expected, with Acknowledge and Suspicious One securing second and third places, respectively.

 

The biggest upset of the day came in the Royal Hero Cup, where Veste One galloped to victory, pushing fluke entrant Hamas to second place and Maxi Macs to a surprising third. In the seventh race, Flightline clinched a confident win, while Winx and Shakira unexpectedly took the next two positions. The eighth and final race saw Gul-e-Jalal dominate with a clear lead, followed by Putin in second and Timeline in third.

 

The combination of predictable outcomes and thrilling upsets ensured an engaging day for horse racing enthusiasts, leaving spectators eagerly anticipating the next event at the Lahore Race Club.

Lahore Race Club to host action-packed eight races featuring three prestigious cups

 Lahore Race Club to host action-packed eight races featuring three prestigious cups

Asher Butt

The Lahore Race Club is set to host the 13th Winter Meeting 2024-25 on Sunday, featuring a thrilling lineup of eight races. The highlight of the day will be three prestigious cup events: the Khalid Bin Waleed Cup, the Tariq Aziz Memorial Cup, and the Royal Hero Cup, accompanied by five competitive Gwadar Plates, promising an exciting spectacle for horse racing enthusiasts.

The Khalid Bin Waleed Cup, the fourth race of the day, will feature top-class horses from Class VI over a 1200-meter distance. Trigger leads the pack as the favorite, with Quality Street and Royal Salute expected to pose stiff competition. Other strong contenders include Leisure Trip, Sandari, Macs King, Prodigal Rain, and Addar.

The fifth race, the Tariq Aziz Memorial Cup, also a Class VI event over 1200 meters, showcases the prowess of Dhafir, tipped as the favorite. Princess Rukhtas and Suspicious One are marked as place and fluke, respectively, with Yesteryear, Feel My Love, and Acknowledge completing the lineup.

The Royal Hero Cup, the sixth race of the day, is a Class VII Division-I race over 1200 meters. Farhan Prince is the standout favorite, with Haidar Prince and Hamas identified as place and fluke. The other contenders in the race include Brooklyn, Naymar, Maxi Macs, National Colour, Western Lady, and Veste One, ensuring a competitive clash.

The day will also feature five Gwadar Plates. The opening race, a maiden run for Class VII Division-VI & VII horses, includes 11 three- to four-year-old horses, with no declared favorite. Participants such as Olympian’s Pride, Zain Prince, Maika Jan, and Latin Storm promise an intense battle. In the second race, Ehsan Queen leads as the favorite, with Gifts of Gold and Merchant of Venus posing challenges. The field also includes Gennie, Naveed-e-Sahar, Drago, and Galileo Lady.

The third race brings a clash of 10 contenders from Class VII Division-IV & V. Generosity is the favorite, while Pocket Power and Kuwait Edition are place and fluke, respectively. Lalay De Jan, Self Belief, Apple of My Eye, and others add depth to the competition. The seventh race features Flying Fire as the favorite in a Class VII Division-II battle, with Moni Prince and Black Bird as strong rivals. The field also includes Winx, Sarkar Raj, and other talented entries.

The final race of the day, a Class VII Division-III & IV event, will see Timeline as the favorite, with Zarbi and Monsoon Mischief offering stiff competition. M.S. Spirit, Gul-e-Jalal, Putin, and Blazing Fire complete the lineup, setting the stage for a thrilling conclusion.

With the inclusion of some of the finest equine talent, the Lahore Race Club promises a day of exhilarating action, drawing fans eager to witness intense battles on the track and celebrate the rich tradition of horse racing.

Dar Hockey Academy continues to shine on the national stage

 Dar Hockey Academy continues to shine on the national stage

Asher Butt

LAHORE: Established in 2006, the Dar Hockey Academy (Dar HA) in Lahore has become a cornerstone of hockey talent development in Pakistan. Over the years, the academy has consistently produced players who have excelled on both national and international stages.

Chief patron of the academy and former hockey stalwart Tauqeer Dar in a conversation with The News highlighted some of the academy’s achievements and contribution to the national front.

He emphasized that the academy first made its mark in 2009 when its boys earned national selection for the Under-18 Asia Cup. Since then, Dar HA alumni have been a regular feature in Pakistan's senior and age-group hockey teams, solidifying the academy’s reputation as a hub of excellence.

On Junior Asia Cup representation, he said that the Pakistan team announced for the upcoming Junior Asia Cup in Muscat, Oman, features five players from Dar Hockey Academy, demonstrating the academy’s continued contribution to Pakistan hockey:

Identifying the players, he stated: Sufyan Khan (Bannu) has been named Vice Captain of the Junior Asia Cup squad. Sufyan recently earned the prestigious International Hockey Federation's Rising Star of the Year Award, highlighting his exceptional talent.

Rao Aqueel (Khoiwala, Khanewal District): A promising young star.

Faizan Janjua (Rawalpindi): The team’s goalkeeper, known for his agility and game awareness.

Bilal Aslam and M. Waseem (Peer Mahal, Toba Tek Singh District): Dynamic players ready to make their mark.

With a mission to nurture young hockey talent, Dar Hockey Academy has emerged as a beacon of hope for the sport in Pakistan. The academy provides comprehensive training, mentoring, and exposure to its players, enabling them to excel at the highest levels, he maintained.

He further added that the inclusion of Dar HA players in the Junior Asia Cup squad is a testament to the academy’s unwavering commitment to fostering future stars of Pakistani hockey.

As the team prepares for the tournament in Oman, he pointed out that the followers of the sport looks forward to witnessing the contributions of these young athletes in elevating Pakistan's hockey legacy.

FIH President Tayyab Ikram launches 'Project Pakistan' for hockey revival

 FIH President Tayyab Ikram launches 'Project Pakistan' for hockey revival

Asher Butt

Tayyab Ikram, President of the International Hockey Federation (FIH), has officially announced the initiation of 'Project Pakistan,' a comprehensive program aimed at reviving hockey in Pakistan. The project, modeled on the successful 'Project India' launched a few years ago, seeks to restore Pakistan's former glory in the sport. A similar initiative is also being planned for Africa.

Speaking at a group of journalists, Tayyab Ikram stressed that 'Project Pakistan' would focus on enhancing performance, professionalism, and infrastructure in the country. He acknowledged Pakistan's rich hockey heritage but emphasized the critical need for financial stability and government support to ensure sustainable progress.

“Pakistan has incredible talent, but the lack of financial resources is a significant hurdle,” Ikram said. He further highlighted that a robust financial model and unwavering commitment from the government are essential to achieve long-term success.

Ikram emphasized that the initiative goes beyond benefiting Pakistan alone; it aims to uplift hockey in Asia and globally. "The revival of Pakistan hockey is not just about one nation—it’s about strengthening world hockey," he stated. He also reiterated the FIH’s commitment to providing technical support to Pakistan and ensuring equal opportunities for all nations.

Reflecting on the current state of hockey worldwide, Ikram pointed out that many nations struggle with financial constraints, limiting their ability to participate in major events like the Olympics. “While 12 countries competed in the Paris Olympics, another 8-10 could have joined if they had proper financial models and government backing,” he noted.

Ikram highlighted the advancements in technology within hockey, describing the sport as being at the forefront compared to many other federations. He mentioned ongoing efforts to integrate AI technology to ensure fair play and improve decision-making. While acknowledging technical challenges, especially in comparison with cricket, he pointed out hockey’s unique multi-directional movements as an area where technological innovations are critical.

A key component of Ikram's vision is empowering smaller nations to participate more actively on the global stage. Referring to the Hockey Five format, he explained how it has helped bridge gaps between countries of varying hockey prowess. “Smaller nations now feel confident competing alongside major hockey countries,” he said, citing Oman’s recent bronze medal victory as a prime example.

Tayyab Ikram urged the Pakistani government to play its part in supporting the revival initiative. He expressed optimism about the trust world hockey has placed in him and pledged to use this platform to drive empowerment and engagement in the sport.

“Project Pakistan is not just a promise; it is a step towards rebuilding the pride of hockey in Pakistan and Asia,” Ikram said while concluding that the project is set to launch within the next few months, signaling a critical turning point for Pakistan hockey. With the support of the FIH, government commitment, and a focus on high performance and professionalism, 'Project Pakistan' could mark the beginning of a new era for one of hockey’s most historic nations.

'If BCCI has concerns, they should talk to us': PCB Chief Mohsin Naqvi

 'If BCCI has concerns, they should talk to us': PCB Chief Mohsin Naqvi

Asher Butt 

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has reiterated Pakistan’s readiness to host the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, urging the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to communicate directly if they have any reservations about the tournament.

 

Speaking to the media on Monday while inspecting the Gaddafi Stadium upgrade project in Lahore, Naqvi stressed the importance of keeping politics out of sports and called on the International Cricket Council (ICC) to safeguard its credibility in decision-making.

 

“We are fully prepared to host the Champions Trophy, and all participating teams are ready to visit Pakistan,” said Naqvi. He emphasized that the PCB is awaiting the ICC’s official announcement of the tournament schedule and expressed hope for its timely release.

 

Naqvi also confirmed that the PCB has reached out to the ICC with a formal letter addressing concerns about the tournament and is awaiting a response.

 

In response to any potential concerns raised by the BCCI, Naqvi invited open communication. “If BCCI has any concerns, they should talk to us. We are ready to address them constructively,” he said, highlighting Pakistan’s commitment to ensuring a successful and smooth tournament.

 

Naqvi also inspected the ongoing Gaddafi Stadium upgrade project, which is being accelerated in preparation for the Champions Trophy. The project, currently 60% complete, includes flooring upgrades, the construction of a new seating structure, and the installation of modern lighting systems.

 

During his visit, Naqvi reviewed the progress in various areas of the stadium, including the main building, enclosures, and infrastructure. He expressed satisfaction with the pace and quality of work, emphasizing the importance of meeting international standards.

 

The project is on track to be completed before the Champions Trophy. “The entire team is working diligently to ensure the stadium is ready in time,” Naqvi assured. He also urged relevant authorities to maintain momentum and adhere to deadlines.

 

Project updates were provided by the Frontier Works Organization (FWO), with key officials, including advisors Aamir Mir and Bilal Afzal, PCB COO Syed Sameer Ahmad, and representatives from NESPAK and domestic cricket operations, present during the inspection.

 

An official of the PCB said that Mohsin Naqvi’s regular inspection of work underline Pakistan’s dedication to hosting the Champions Trophy at the highest standard, reaffirming the nation’s commitment to the global cricketing community while calling for constructive dialogue and cooperation.

Sultan Claims Sheikh Sajjad Hassan Memorial Cup at Lahore Race Club

  Sultan Claims Sheikh Sajjad Hassan Memorial Cup at Lahore Race Club

Asher Butt

The Lahore Race Club witnessed thrilling action on Sunday as Sultan clinched victory in the prestigious Sheikh Sajjad Hassan Memorial Cup, the highlight of a seven-race card that featured upsets and surprises throughout the day.

The opening race saw the favorite Anni Power live up to expectations, securing a dominant win. In a surprise finish, Gift Of Gold claimed second place, while Capital City, expected to place higher, settled for third.

An upset marked the second race as Desert Pari stormed to victory, defeating the favorite Zaman Sahab, who had to settle for second. Dill Nasheen, a surprise contender, came in third.

In the third race, the favorite Moni Princess delivered a strong performance to take first place. Surprises continued as Black Master and Gul-E-Jalal finished second and third, respectively.

The much-anticipated Sheikh Sajjad Hassan Memorial Cup saw a commanding win by Sultan, who showcased exceptional form. Luna Afzal followed in second place, with Set In Stone rounding out the top three.

Another upset unfolded in the fifth race with Echelon emerging victorious. Manat and Leisure Trip, both surprise contenders, finished second and third, respectively.

The sixth race continued the day’s trend of surprises as Desert Crown upset the field to take the win. The favorite Farhan Prince came in second, followed by Babar King and Black Tiger, who tied for third.

The final race of the day concluded with yet another upset, as Yesteryear claimed the top spot. Shakira delivered a surprising performance to finish second, while Wynx, considered a long shot, secured third place.

The races at the Lahore Race Club not only thrilled fans but also showcased the unpredictable nature of the sport, with upsets dominating the day’s results. The Sheikh Sajjad Hassan Memorial Cup stood out as the centerpiece, with Sultan’s victory cementing his reputation as a formidable contender in the racing circuit.

This day of exhilarating finishes and unexpected outcomes will be remembered as a highlight of the year’s racing calendar at Lahore Race Club.

Sheikh Sajjad Hassan Memorial Cup featured race of LRC on Nov 17

Sheikh Sajjad Hassan Memorial Cup featured race of LRC today

Asher Butt

The prestigious Sheikh Sajjad Hassan Memorial Cup, a term race for two-year-old horses, will be the highlight of the 12th day of the Lahore Winter Meeting 2024-25 at the Lahore Race Club.

Scheduled for Sunday, the event features a total of seven competitive races, promising an exhilarating day for racing enthusiasts.

The Sheikh Sajjad Hassan Memorial Cup will feature seven contenders, including Hall Road, Amanah Noor, Secret Lover, New York City, Luna Afzaal, Sultan, and Set In Stone. While no clear favorite has been declared, the lineup ensures fierce competition in this marquee race.

The activity at the LRC will roll into action with the Conflict Plate of Class VII, Division VI & VII, having favourite in Anni Power. As the place contender is Capital City, a surprise is expected from King Asia. Other participants are Naveed-e-Sahar, Raftar, Tatla Choice, Galileo Lady, Gifts of Gold, Smart Fighter, I Shall Lead, and Sarparast.

The second race is of Class VII, Division V & VI with Zaman Sahib being the favourite and could be followed by Stardom at place with a wild entry of Desert Parri. Remaining field includes Amigo, Sikandar Saphire, Dil Nasheen, Gennie, Matnood Jr, Malik Badshah, Pride of Chandrai, and Al Mabrook.

In the third race there are Class VII, Division III & IV participants. Moni Prince is seen as the potential best while Shareeka is believed second best and a surprise is believed coming from Kuwait Edition. The remaining lineup has Queen of Ameer, Black Master, Emerging Star, M.S. Spirit, Gul-e-Jalal, Generosity, Blazing Fire, Lalay De Jan, and Yes Commander.

The fourth race of the day is the Sheikh Sajjad Hassan Memorial Cup, a term Race for 2-Year-Old Horses with no declared favourite as the participants include Hall Road, Amanah Noor, Secret Lover, New York City, Luna Afzaal, Sultan, and Set In Stone.

In the fifth race, there are Class VI participants. Favourite here is Murad and its closest challenger is seen in Macs King while a surprise may come from Echelon. The field also has Leisure Trip, Addar, and Manat.

The sixth race is the Class VII, Division I & II category with Farhan Prince being the frontrunner. Expect a close fight from Babar King with surprise from Black Tiger for being on fluke. Other participants are Brooklyn, Flight Line, Western Lady, and Desert Crown.

The final race is of Class VII, Division I & III. Blue Ash is favourite while Yesteryear follow and Wynx is on fluke. Columbus, Shakira, Specialist, Nisha, Black Bird, and Deedavar are the other contenders.

The Lahore Winter Meeting continues to captivate with its thrilling mix of seasoned and emerging talents. Racing fans are encouraged to join the excitement and witness the making of champions in this action-packed event.

Upsets Rule the Day at Lahore Race Club

 Upsets Rule the Day at Lahore Race Club

Aser Butt 

The Lahore Race Club witnessed a day of upsets on Sunday as unexpected winners emerged in both featured cup events, defying the odds in thrilling fashion.

In the Atlas Honda Cup, Money Heist pulled off a stunning upset, securing victory despite being far from the favourites. Meanwhile, the Arbab Nur Muhammad Khan Memorial Cup saw another unexpected champion in Qaswa Princess, who similarly clinched a surprising win.

Other noteworthy performances came from Desert Pari, Monsoon Mischief, Luckvir, and Black Tiger, who each claimed wins against the odds. Only Dhafir, a favourite in the final race of the day, lived up to expectations with a commanding victory.

Detailed Race Results

Opening Race: Desert Pari delivered an unexpected win, while Rayan Prince placed and Anni Power took third, both surprising finishes.

Second Race: Monsoon Mischief claimed a surprise victory. Fluke pick Zaman Sahib placed second, and Vartika rounded off the top three in another upset result.

Third Race: Luckvir, a potential surprise finisher, won the race. Timeline took place and Putin came in third, both delivering unexpected performances.

Atlas Honda Cup (Fourth Race): The highlight of the day saw Money Heist upsetting the favourites. Quality Street finished in place as expected, while favourite Trigger was pushed to third.

Arbab Nur Muhammad Khan Memorial Cup (Fifth Race): Another major upset came from Qaswa Princess, who took first. Macs King followed with a surprise place, and dark horse Sardar finished third.

Sixth Race: Feel My Love won in an upset, favourite Black Tiger took second, and fluke pick Desert Crown finished third.

Seventh and Final Race: Favourite Dhafir secured victory, while fluke pick Farhan Prince placed second, and Veste One provided a surprise third-place finish.

The day’s results underscored the unpredictability of horse racing, with several surprise winners bringing excitement and suspense to the Lahore Race Club.

 LRC to host Atlas Honda Cup and Arbab Nur Khan Cup on Sunday

 

Asher Butt

The Lahore Race Club is all set to hold an action-packed racing event on Sunday, marking the 11th Day of the Winter Meeting 2024-2025. Featuring seven exciting races, the event will be headlined by the Atlas Honda Cup and the Arbab Nur Muhammad Khan Memorial Cup. This much-anticipated lineup will include a variety of classes and divisions, highlighting some of the most promising horses of the season.

As the top picks of the opening Rambo Plate (Class VII, Division VI & VII) are believed to be is Gifts of Gold as the race favourite, with Desert Parri expected to place, and Royal Baby seen as the fluke option.

Other Entrants are Well Regard, Zain Prince, Naveed-e-Sahar, Ideology, Kaptaan Gee, Sarpagast, Jhanbaz, Jalthal, Elon Musk, Reyaan Khan, Anni Power, Merchant of Venus, Al Karam, I Shall Lead.

In race two of Class VII, Division V & VI, the featured horses includes Awais Love leads as favourites, with Pocket Power expected to place, and Zaman Sahib as the potential fluke. Remaining participants are Gennie, Vartika, Monsoon, Mischief, Sikandar Saphire, Mafnood JR, Khanum Princess.

The third race is of Class VII, Division III & IV pick. Fairy World is expected to lead, followed by Lady Champion in second and Luckyir as a possible surprise finisher. Remaining lineup includes Other Entrants: Timeline, Shareeka, Lalay De Jan, Putin, Kuwait Edition, Yes Commander.

The fourth race is the Atlas Honda Cup, which is a Term Race for 3-Year-Olds. Trigger is set as the race favourite, with Quality Street likely to place and Dominus as the fluke. Other challengers are National Colour, Princess Rukhtas, Yesteryear, Money Heist.

The Arbab Nur Muhammad Khan Memorial Cup which is a Class VI race will go for 1200 Meters, is the main event of the day. Echelon is the favourite, followed by Sundari for the place, and Sardar as the dark horse. Other entrants are Leisure Trip, Macs King, Murad, Qaswa Princess, Phantom.

The sixth race is of Class VII, Division II with Black Tiger heads as the favourites, with Wynx for the place and Desert Crown as a fluke option. Other in the lineup are Dubawi's Angel, Gondal One, Feel My Love, Taj Mahal, Nisha, Shakira, Black Bird, Deedavar.

The finals race is of Class VII, Division I. Dhafir is the favourite, with Western Lady as the place option, and Farhan Prince as a potential surprise performer. Other participants are Winx, Veste One.

 

With a dynamic set of races featuring top horses and intense competition, the Lahore Race Club’s Winter Meeting promises to be a thrilling event for race enthusiasts. The stage is set for a memorable day at the tracks, with the Atlas Honda Cup and the Arbab Nur Muhammad Khan Memorial Cup serving as the prime attractions.

Underdog Echelon and Perfect Again triumph at Air Link Cups of LRC

 Underdog Echelon and Perfect Again triumph at Air Link Cups of LRC

Asher Butt

In a thrilling turn of events, underdog Echelon and Perfect Again claimed the Air Link Cups at Lahore Race Club on Sunday, delivering unexpected victories in an event marked by surprising outcomes. Sponsored by Air Link Communications Limited, the event saw Echelon take the spotlight with a sensational performance, securing a remarkable upset and capturing the prestigious title on a day mostly dominated by long-shot contenders. Flying Fire was the only favorite to secure a win.

The day began with Awais Love securing an early surprise victory over strong contenders like Gifts Of Gold, who took second place, and the relatively unknown Drago, who managed third. In another race, Zarbi displayed an impressive pace from the beginning, maintaining a consistent lead and outperforming rivals to secure the top spot. Sikander Sapphire surprised by finishing in second place, with Amigo close behind in third.

Echelon’s unexpected win in the Air Link Cup showcased its potential, especially since it wasn’t counted among the top favorites. Dominus, a favorite for a place position, lived up to expectations, while Quality Street completed the podium. In the fourth event of the day, Perfect Again demonstrated a strong gallop to secure its maiden win, with Luna Afzaal and Ronaq finishing in second and third, respectively.

In the fifth race, Flying Fire delivered an impressive late surge to claim victory, meeting expectations as one of the event’s few favorites. Meanwhile, Fairy World secured a place position, and Lady Champion, considered a long shot, surprised with a third-place finish.

The final race saw Puerto Rico achieve an unexpected win over favored competitors Wynx and Yesteryear, who finished in second and third places, respectively. This marked the close of an eventful day at Lahore Race Club, where the unpredictable outcomes underscored the excitement of the Air Link Cups.

Exciting Air Link Cups, Heer Sial Plates featured races of LRC

 Exciting Air Link Cups, Heer Sial Plates featured races of LRC

Asher Butt 

The Lahore Race Club’s winter meeting on Sunday promises an action-packed day for racegoers, with two Air Link Cups and four Heer Sial Plates lined up for the ninth day of the season. Sponsored by Air Link Communications Limited, the event brings together a mix of seasoned and maiden horses across different divisions and classes, creating an exciting roster of races for enthusiasts and participants alike.

The Air Link Cup races are the highlight of the event, featuring a combination of Class VI and VII horses in one race, and a maiden run of Thoroughbred and Half-Bred (TBP & HB) two-year-olds in another.

The Opening Race, Heer Sial Plate (Class VII & Division VII), Kicking off the event is a competitive nine-horse field. Silent Melody is expected to lead, with Gifts of Gold poised as a strong contender and Merchant of Venus as a potential dark horse. Other challengers include Awais Love, Jhanbaz, American Star, I Shall Lead, Drago, and Sarparast, each vying for the top spot.

The Second Race of Class VII & Division V & VI. This eight-horse race features Al Mabrook as the favorite, with Super Power and Zarbi tipped for place and fluke positions, respectively. Mafnood JR, Amigo, Royal Baby, Tango To Fire, and Sikandar Saphire complete the lineup, promising a fiercely competitive run.

In the Third Race, Air Link Cup comprise Class VII Division I and Class VI Division IV lineup. The first Air Link Cup of the day combines Class VI and Class VII horses, with Phantom emerging as the race favorite. Dominus and Quality Street are close behind, while Desert Crown, Flight Line, Echelon, Babar King, and Western Lady round out this high-stakes field.

The Fourth Race too is the Air Link Cup for Two-Year-Olds (TBP & HB). This maiden race for Thoroughbred and Half-Bred two-year-olds marks an exciting first outing for several promising contenders. Eight young horses, including Perfect Again, Distant Music, Sardar Bey, Luna Afzaal, Sultan, Nisha, Ronaq, and Set in Stone, are set to make their racing debut without a designated favorite, giving each a fair shot at victory.

In the Fifth Race, there are Class VII Division III & IV field. In this nine-horse race, Flying Fire is the favorite, with Zaman Sahib expected to place and Lady Champion marked as a fluke contender. Other competitors, Fairy World, Lalay De Jan, Thunder Boy, Public City, Putin, and Yes Commander, will aim to disrupt the favorites and claim the win.

The Class VII & Division II Closing the event is a thrilling lineup with Wynx favored to win, Puerto Rico positioned for a potential place, and Yesteryear as a wildcard. G-Three, Nazma Queen, Timeline, and Deedavar complete the eight-horse field, each bringing competitive energy to wrap up an exhilarating day at the Lahore Race Club.

With stakes high and favorites lined up against dark horses, the Air Link Cup and Heer Sial Plates are set to deliver thrilling finishes and surprises. Racing fans can look forward to a memorable day of competition as horses and jockeys give it their all on the track.

Verde One stages major upset to win Amigo Cup

 Verde One stages major upset to win Amigo Cup

Asher Butt 

In a dramatic turn of events, Verde One, a longshot, delivered the biggest upset of the day by clinching victory in the prestigious Amigo Cup at the Lahore Race Club on Sunday. With a late surge along the rail, Verde One overcame all competition, leaving racegoers stunned and securing a well-earned triumph in the day’s main event.

Surprises were the order of the day as all five races witnessed unexpected results, overturning the predictions of the pundits. Leading the charge were horses like Mafnood JR, Pocket Power, Deedawar, and Western Lady, all of whom outpaced the favourites with relative ease.

The day’s action began with disappointment as the opening race, a maiden run featuring eight new entrants, was cancelled due to insufficient competition. However, the excitement quickly picked up in the remaining five races.

Mafnood JR Kicks Off Surprises

In the first race, Mafnood JR delivered the first upset of the day, securing a comfortable win. Sikander Sapphire, the favourite, had to settle for second, while Silent Melody claimed third place on a fluke.

Pocket Power Stuns in Third Race

The surprises continued in the third race, where Pocket Power electrified the crowd with an unexpected win. Zaman Sahib placed second as a fluke, and Super Power, another surprise performer, took third.

Deedawar Topples Flying Fire in Fourth Race

In the fourth race, Deedawar stunned the bookmakers and fans alike by defeating favourite Flying Fire. The unexpected result saw Absolutely Not take second place, while Flying Fire could only manage third.

Verde One’s Triumph in Amigo Cup

The highlight of the day came in the Amigo Cup, where Verde One launched a late and powerful charge from the standside, defeating favourite Dawn to Dusk, who had to settle for second place. Money Heist, another outsider, completed the top three with a surprising third-place finish.

Western Lady Dominates Final Race

In the final race, Western Lady led from start to finish, leaving her challengers in the dust. Despite a strong performance from the favourite Blue Ash, who finished second, Western Lady’s "catch me if you can" tactics proved unbeatable. Fujairah secured third place, rounding off a day of remarkable upsets.

Jockey Awais Anjum’s Triple Triumph

It was also a day to remember for jockey Awais Anjum, who was in scintillating form, securing victories in three races while riding Mafnood JR, Pocket Power, and Deedawar.

Sunday’s racing event at the Lahore Race Club will be remembered for its unexpected twists, leaving the favourites scrambling and underdogs basking in the limelight.

Amigo Cup highlights 8th day of LRC’s winter meeting

 Amigo Cup highlights 8th day of LRC’s winter meeting

Asher Butt

The Lahore Race Club's 8th day winter meeting is set to take place  on Sunday, featuring the highly anticipated Amigo Cup as the main event. A total of six thrilling races are scheduled for the day, including five Bhalwal Plates, promising an action-packed afternoon for horse racing enthusiasts.

The Amigo Cup, a race featuring Class VII, Division I horses, stands out as the highlight. A competitive field of seven top-tier horses will battle it out over a 1300-metre distance, with Dawn to Dusk emerging as the favourite to clinch the title. National Colour is expected to place, while Verde One is being tipped as the fluke runner. The other contenders for the prestigious cup include Spartacus, Desert Crown, Flight Line, and Money Heist, all of whom are poised to put up a strong challenge.

 

First Race (Bhalwal Plate - Class VII, Division VI & VII - 1600 metres)

A maiden race with no declared favourite, making it a wide-open contest among: Sarparast, Jhanbaz, Rayaan Prince, Jawad Love, Annie Power, Al Karam, Doctor, and Flokey.

 

Second Race (Bhalwal Plate - Class VII, Division VI & VII - 1600 metres)

Sikandar Saphire is the favourite, with Merchant of Venus expected to place, while Silent Melody is marked as a fluke. The field also includes: Star Crown, American Star, Naveed-e-Sahar, Gifts of Gold, Mafnood JR, Sam Love, and Ubbi.

 

Third Race (Bhalwal Plate - Class VII, Division V & VI - 1600 metres)

Vartika is the favourite, with Mumraiz Prince as the expected placer, and Zaman Sahib is the fluke runner. Other participants are: Zarbi, Amigo, Super Power, and Pocket Power.

 

Fourth Race (Bhalwal Plate - Class VII, Division III & IV - 1600 metres)

Love Love leads as the favourite, with Lady Champion expected to place, and Flying Fire marked as a fluke. The rest of the lineup features: Lalay De Jan, Absolutely Not, Deedavar, Shining Moon, Hukam, and Generosity.

 

Fifth Race (Amigo Cup - Class VII, Division I - 1300 metres)

The main event of the day sees Dawn to Dusk as the favourite, with National Colour aiming for the place spot and Verde One expected as the fluke. Other challengers include: Spartacus, Desert Crown, Flight Line, and Money Heist.

 

Sixth Race (Bhalwal Plate - Class VII, Division II - 1300 metres)

Blue Ash is the favourite to win, with Fujairah expected to place, and Wynx tipped as the fluke. The rest of the field includes: Dubawi's Angel, Shair-e-Niaz Baig, Western Lady, Princess Sara, Timeline, and Puerto Rico.

 

With a mix of maiden, seasoned, and competitive horses, the day's races are expected to keep the crowd on the edge of their seats. The Amigo Cup in particular will see a clash of top contenders, all vying for glory on the prestigious Lahore Race Club track. The first race kicks off the day's events, leading up to the much-anticipated final race, which promises an exciting conclusion to a thrilling day of horse racing.

 

Big upsets mark thrilling day at LRC’s 7th Winter Meeting

 Big upsets mark thrilling day at LRC’s 7th Winter Meeting

Asher Butt

The Lahore Race Club (LRC) witnessed a day of unexpected results as several upsets unfolded in the highly anticipated 7th Winter Meeting held on Sunday, October 13th. The featured events—Welcome Winter Cup, Bon Voyage Cup, and Toru Khan Cup—saw underdogs stealing the spotlight, delivering a thrilling and unpredictable day of horse racing.

The day kicked off with the Montreaux Plate (Class VII, Division VII). Sikandar Saphire, the race favourite, lived up to expectations and secured first place with a strong finish. However, it was Silent Melody who surprised the field by claiming second place, while Merchant of Venus delivered another unexpected performance, finishing third. These upsets in the minor placings added an element of surprise right from the start.

The second race, the Montreaux Plate (Class VII, Division V & VI), saw the first major upset of the day when Vartika emerged victorious, beating the favourite Zaman Sahib, who settled for second place. Super Power, who was expected to take second place, ended up in third, rounding off a race full of surprises.

The upsets continued in the featured Welcome Winter Cup (Class VII, Division II). In a dramatic race, Down To Dusk stunned everyone by taking the cup, leaving the favourite Sehar out of the winning positions. Fujairah, another surprise performer, took second place, while Blue Ash claimed third in a race that saw all the favourites missing from the top spots.

In the fourth race of the day, the Montreaux Plate (Class VII, Division I), more upsets followed as Quality Street emerged victorious, defeating the favourite Babar King, who had to settle for third place. Dominus delivered a strong performance to finish second, marking yet another surprise for punters.

The Bon Voyage Cup, a term race for two-year-olds, kept the theme of upsets alive. Hi Volt pulled off a surprising victory, leaving pre-race favourite expectations in the dust. Brigadier finished second, while Perfect Again came third, both delivering unexpected results that left fans and punters amazed.

The day’s sixth race, the Toru Khan Cup (Class V), saw a stunning win from Sundari, a horse initially considered a long shot, but proving her strength by taking first place. Manat followed in second, while Macs King managed to claim third, both delivering surprise finishes that completed a day full of shocks.

The final race of the day, a Montreaux Plate (Class VII, Division III & IV), provided some balance for punters as Black Tiger, the race favourite, came through with a dominant win. However, the surprises were not over, as Lady Champion finished second, while Luckvir, considered a fluke, grabbed third, closing out the day with an unexpected twist.

LRC Secretary Shahzad Akhtar, reflecting on the day’s racing, remarked, "Today’s races were a testament to the unpredictable nature of this sport. Fans witnessed some extraordinary performances from horses that were not heavily favoured, making this one of the most exciting days of our Winter Meeting."

The 7th Winter Meeting will be remembered for its upsets, with underdog horses taking control in the major races, leaving punters and fans eager to see what surprises future races hold.