LAHORE: Sarpanch, the heavily favoured three-year-old colt, redeemed himself after a disappointing race two weeks ago, winning the Super Asset Cup during the Lahore Winter Meeting here at the Racecourse on Sunday.

Trained by Husnain and ridden by Deenar Mirwani, Sarpanch comfortably crossed the finish line ahead of Big Beat and Murtajil. With no challengers in sight, Sarpanch maintained a commanding lead throughout the race. Owner Malik Salman Khalid received the cup from LRC steward Mahmood Khan.

In the day’s supporting event, rank outsider colt Naveed-e-Sehar surprised everyone as he surged ahead in the stretch under the guidance of rider Mubashar Bhatti’s. Winning by a significant distance, Naveed-e-Sehar beat out favourite colt Prince Zain, with co-favourite filly Sky Warrior in third place. The winning owner, Mohamamd Zafar Khan, was presented with the May Cup by LRC member Umar Khan.

Of the six races, three favourites emerged victorious, resulting in an even distribution of winnings between bookmakers and punters.

The rising temperature negatively impacted attendance at the races, prompting the LRC to schedule day/night races starting from Sunday, May 21. As announced during the event, the first race on Sunday will commence at 6:00pm.

Published in Dawn, May 15th, 2023