Pune: The prestigious Southern Command Gold Cup, a highlight of the Indian horse racing calendar, was held at the Royal Western India Turf Club (RWITC), Pune, on Saturday (August 31).

Lieutenant General Dhiraj Seth, recipient of the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal and Army Commander of Southern Command, graced the event as the Chief Guest.

The race witnessed intense competition, with INQUILAB, expertly ridden by jockey Akshay Kumar and trained by Imtiaz Sait, clinching the victory.

Lieutenant General Dhiraj Seth presented the trophy to the winners and praised the RWITC for their flawless organization of the event.

The Southern Command Gold Trophy is renowned for its rich legacy, having first been contested on 4th September 1948. This landmark race laid the foundation for what would become a key fixture in Indian racing history.

Originally open to horses in Class II and III, as per racing standards, the event covered a demanding one and a half miles. Over the decades, the race’s prominence has grown significantly, achieving listed status in 1986 and later being elevated to Grade 3 in 1999, thereby cementing its position as a distinguished event in the Indian Racing Calendar.

Beyond its competitive significance, the Southern Command Gold Trophy symbolizes the enduring relationship between the Indian Army and the RWITC.

This longstanding association continues to inspire future generations of racing enthusiasts and turf aficionados. The race not only serves as a sporting spectacle but also as a reminder of the shared heritage and collaboration between the military and the equestrian community.