The magical Mystical enraptured the audience at the 2007 Dubai International Racing Carnival, winning two races in grand style, and even driving his trainer to cardiac arrest. The wins were highlighted as DubaiRaceNight.com’s #3 ”Moment of the Decade.” India has not been represented at the DIRC since that time and no fewer than four horses are expected to be present.
Antonios landed the Indian Derby (G1) as a 50-1 shocker over the previously undefeated filly Set Alight back in April 2009, and is likely being pointed for the 2,400 meters events at Meydan. His Indian Derby victory over that distance established a new record time. Click HERE for more on Antonios by Major Nargolkar, via Sid Fernando’s Observations. Video of the 2009 Indian Derby is posted below.
Oasis Star, the winner of five consecutive sprint races, is due for the journey to the DIRC as well. A daughter of Senure, it had been reported that the 6-year-old was due to race in California, and she may still end up there after her season in Dubai. Trained by C D Katrak, Oasis Star is currently the highest-rated runner by India’s top racing club, the Royal Western India Turf Club. Another 6-year-old mare, Yana, is amongst those accepting the Dubai invitation. She has traded blows with Antonios throughout the year and comes in rated just slightly lower than her male rival.
Posted below is Oasis Star’s win in the Turf Club Trophy (G3), an easy hand-ridden win.