Suraj Narredu becomes the first Indian jockey to win at Royal Ascot in the UK; dedicates historic triumph to his homeland
Indian jockey Suraj Narredu performs a flying dismount after his win with Fireblade. Pic Courtesy: racingpost.com
Ace Indian jockey Suraj Narredu etched his name in history, achieving a remarkable milestone for himself and his nation by powering Fireblade to a thrilling victory in the Dubai Duty Free Shergar Cup Stayers on Saturday at the prestigious Royal Ascot racetrack in the United Kingdom. The triumph marked a moment of pride for Indian horse racing, as Narredu became the first Indian jockey to conquer this iconic venue.
“It’s a dream come true, riding at [Royal] Ascot and having a winner,” said an emotional Suraj. After crossing the finish line, he dismounted Fireblade with a signature high jump, a celebratory move immortalised by his idol, Frankie Dettori. For Narredu, the moment was deeply personal. As a young boy, he was inspired to pursue a career as a jockey after watching Dettori’s legendary seven straight victories at Ascot in 1996. To ride a winner at the same track and honour Dettori with his iconic dismount felt like a full-circle moment. “This one is for India,” Narredu declared in the winner’s enclosure, dedicating his triumph to his homeland. “It’s a proud moment for India, for the Indian racing fraternity back home.”
Narredu’s victory was not just a personal triumph but a collective one. As captain of Team Asia, he led his squad to a nail-biting victory in the jockeys’ contest for the Shergar Cup, amassing 68 points to edge out Team Europe (67).
Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!
