Special Correspondent
The 11th Day Winter Meeting 2025–26 at the Lahore Race Club is set to deliver a thrilling day of turf action this Sunday, with seven competitive events scheduled, blending pace, precision, and endurance. The meeting’s spotlight will fall on the fifth and sixth races—both stretching beyond the usual sprint distances and promising a true examination of stamina for both horses and jockeys.
While most contests will be run over 1100 metres in various divisions of Class VII, the feature races—the Class VI (1400 metres) and Class VII Division I (1300 metres)—will provide a different test, rewarding balance, fitness, and tactical judgment.
Race 1 – Class VII Division VI & VII (Maiden) – 1100 metres (12:30 PM)
The curtain-raiser will see a large field of maiden runners in pursuit of their first victory. Mr Handsome has emerged as the public fancy after strong trackwork, while Stalker is backed to claim a place. Pakiza could surprise as the fluke. Others in contention include Construct Craft, Azan Prince, True Love, Sher Dil, Bodrum, Majesty, and Flokey. With several unexposed contenders, this opener promises unpredictability.
Race 2 – Class VII Division VI & VII – 1100 metres (1:05 PM)
A lively sprint follows, featuring Thunder Man as the clear favourite based on his last run. American Star looks well-placed to challenge, while Naveed-e-Sehar is being touted as the dark horse of the field. The lineup also features Tango To Fire, Mafnood JR, Khizer Choice, Pride of Chandrai, Jalal Prince, Barrister, Leo Star, and Gifts of Gold. Speed and early positioning are likely to prove decisive here.
Race 3 – Class VII Division V & VI – 1100 metres (1:40 PM)
This mid-card sprint features Zindagi as the prime contender following consistent form and strong morning gallops. Lucky Macs is tipped for place honours, while Rayaan Prince could spring a surprise. The field also includes Mr Asia, Haseeb Thrill, Zaman Sahib, and Shahin Shah—each capable of upsetting the odds in a tight finish.
Race 4 – Class VII Division II & III – 1100 metres (2:15 PM)
A competitive sprint with several proven runners, this race is expected to produce one of the closest finishes of the day. Nostalgic stands favourite, with Sher Khan looking well poised to make an impression. Sarkar Raj could prove dangerous if he finds rhythm early. The lineup includes Sultan Prince, Mister Sardar, Seven Star, Shareeka, Princess Barcelona, Dubawi’s Angel, Vartika, and Luckvir—a strong mix of form and potential.
Race 5 – Class VI – 1400 metres (2:50 PM)
The first of the day’s feature races will test stamina and strategy over 1400 metres. Prodigal Rain, the likely favourite, brings solid staying form and late finishing power. Redrock is fancied for place, while Ceaser could surprise if allowed to dictate the pace. Murad and Brooklyn complete the five-horse field in what should be a tactical affair decided in the home straight.
Race 6 – Class VII Division I – 1300 metres (3:25 PM)
Another highlight of the meeting, this race blends speed and endurance. Mogambo has been strongly backed to deliver, boasting sharp workouts and a proven record over extended sprints. Kit Kat is a reliable placer, while Haider Prince could upset expectations with a well-timed run. The lineup includes Desert Crown, Flash, and Feel My Love, setting the stage for a closely fought contest.
Race 7 – Class VII Division III & IV – 1100 metres (4:00 PM)
The finale brings together a compact but talented field. Awan Di Shan tops the betting charts after showing improved form in recent outings. Haseeb Thunder looks the best for place, while Little Master could provide a thrilling finish as the fluke. Imperius, Black Magic, and Hero round off the day’s competitive card.
Outlook
With a mix of speed tests and stamina battles, Sunday’s meeting promises an engaging spectacle for Lahore’s racing enthusiasts. The extended-distance contests—the fifth and sixth races—are expected to draw the most attention, with several emerging contenders looking to make a mark ahead of the season’s mid-phase.
