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The curtain will rise on the first major crowd-puller of the Pune season with the running of the S.A. Poonawalla Million (Gr. 3) over 1,600m on September 14 (Sunday).
Ahead of the Pune Derby, this race is regarded as a stepping stone for three-year-olds aiming to establish themselves as future stars. The ₹1.5 million purse makes it the richest event for this age group, ensuring top-quality participation.
Adding to the buzz, the Villoo C. Poonawalla Million (₹1.5 million) and the Serum Institute of India Trophy will also feature on the same day.
Gunsmoke, from trainer Malesh Narredu’s yard, looks particularly exciting. In his last outing over 1600m, he produced a dazzling late run, coming from what seemed an impossible position to snatch victory — a performance that stamped him as a colt of real class.
Equally formidable is Ice Of Fire from Prasanna Kumar’s stables, who has two Bangalore summer wins to her tally.
Baychimo, now under the care of trainer Nirad Karanjawala because the previous trainer Adhirajsingh Jodha is serving a suspension, comes into the event with a Bangalore summer victory to his credit and with the benefit of a mock race and encouraging morning trials, should fight out the finish.
Zacharias, schooled by Pesi Shroff, comes with the advantage of a mock race, and his recent workouts suggest he may strike.
Published – September 11, 2025 06:17 pm IST
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S.A. Poonawalla Million to be run on Sept. 14.
