AMBROSIO ENDURES THE TEST OF STAMINA TO WIN THE DR M A M RAMASWAMY STAYERS’ CUP, GR.1

After winning the Byculla Club Trophy, Mumbai challenger Sacred Roman looked set to score in this test of stamina but there was an equal dose of confidence in the two Bangalore challengers Ambrosio and Cosmos. With Royal Crystal being withdrawn there were nine proven stayers ready for the start of this endurance race.

While Whomakestherules was slow to start, Cavarozzi took the early lead with Point To Prove on the rails and Sacred Roman. Sacred Roman soon took over the lead with the rest of the horses falling into line. Cavorozzi, Point To Prove, Southern Ruler, Ambrosio with Cosmos on his outside, followed by Whomakestherules, Reunion and Raees. Sacred Roman extended his lead by about four lengths while the rest ran in a single line. Southern Ruler created a stir coming through on the rails to take over the lead and seemed to be running away. Cavorozzi followed soon overtaking Sacred Roman with Point To Prove waiting to do the same. The pace picked up and the so did the gap between runners with the S S Attaollahi-trained Ambrosia who was in fifth finding himself too far from the leader. Southern Ruler had opened up a gap of five lengths as he brought the field into the home stretch. Within a few strides Sacred Roman was back again to claim what he sought with the rest of the field going all out. None could cope with the giant strides and powerful riding of jockey Suraj Narredu astride Ambrosio who arrested the lead from Sacred Roman and Point To Prove. Raees and Cosmos came with a late challenge but had to settle for third and fourth place respectively. Ambrosio (Multidimensional-Ambrosia) won by 2¼ lengths from Point To Prove in 3:11.00.

The property of Mr P Prabhakar Reddy, Mr Rama Seshu Eyunni & United Racing and Bloodstock Breeders Ltd, has won five of his nine starts coming second on all other occasions with career earnings of Rs 52, 89,116. This was his first Group win and he certainly chose the grand stage on which to do it.