Jendayi will be tested on Sunday: Trainer Pesi Shroff

Trainer Pesi Shroff

Jendayi, trained by Pesi Shroff, has been installed as favourite for the HPSL Indian Derby to be run at the Mahalaxmi racetrack on Sunday. The champion trainer, in his earlier avatar as jockey, had won the Indian Derby a record eight times! As trainer, he will attempt to win his fourth Derby title on Sunday.

Shroff took a few minutes off from his busy schedule to speak to mid-day about the big event. Excerpts from the interview.

Also Read: Unbeaten filly Jendayi towers over rivals

Your thoughts on this Derby...
I think this is an open Derby. Jendayi has won against horses of relatively lesser ability than what she will face on Sunday. Take my other filly Jamari. She has proven herself against formidable opposition. Then there are other well-performed horses in the fray. Jendayi will be tested on Sunday. That's all I can say at this moment.

How do you see the race unfolding on the track?
A lot will depend on who sets the pace, and how. I have (a horse named) Constable, but I am not sure about his ability in that role. I think Fighton is the fastest, and since their Exuma (trainer MK Jadhav) is a good stayer, it's my guess they will try to control the pace with Fighton.

You haven't mentioned Giant King, the likely pacemaker from Malesh Narredu's camp...
Giant King as pacemaker? He is a proven stayer, I would view him as a contender with merit.

If you were offered R10 to bet, who will you bet on - Jendayi or Jamari?
Neither. I am an unlucky gambler. Why would I jinx my horses?

Then put that money on the rival horse whom you fear?
I would never wish ill luck for any horse. It's their one big day - every one of them deserves a chance. Let there not be any hard luck stories - that's all I will pray for.