LAHORE: The Lahore Race Club witnessed a spectacular display of racing prowess as Jim and Tonic claimed victory in the Pakistan Derby 2024, living up to high expectations in a thrilling showdown.
The event showcased the finest horses, and Jim and Tonic, under the skilled guidance of rider Amir Pervaiz, clocked an impressive 2 minutes 32.5 seconds to secure the title, marking the eighth derby win for Pervaiz.
In the opening Event 360 Cup, Merchant Of Venus emerged as the surprise winner, outpacing the favourite Abdullah Champion and Minister, which surprisingly took the third position. The second race, Zofeur Cup, witnessed another upset with Black Tiger securing victory over Handsome and favourite Luckvir.
Lady Champion sprung a late surge to claim victory in the Macs Cup, causing the third surprise of the day. Apple Of My Eye as expected took the second spot and to the surprise of all favourite Wonder Woman came third.
The Jockey Club Of Pakistan Cup saw Swift Retort, an underdog, securing an unexpected win. However, Acknowledge as expected took the place while Feel My Love, which was on fluke settled for third position.
Dilawaiz galloped to victory in the National Breeders’ Cup, adding another surprise to the day’s events. Sardar was second. Golden Market gave another surprise of the race by taking the third position.
The Pakistan Derby was the highlight of the day and in this much-anticipated event Jim and Tonic clinched the top spot and a substantial Rs40 million purse for its owner. Farhan King surprised by securing the second position, while Spartacus claimed the third spot.
More surprises were unveiled, as J-K added to the day’s unexpected outcomes by cruising home to win the Country Bred Champion Cup. It moved past favourite Samson that had to settle for second place while Wattoo Choice also gave a surprise with its third position. In the Stewards Cup, Qaswa Princess staged the seventh surprise of the day.
