One of the eagerly awaited and most celebrated events in the Indian racing calendar, the exalted Kingfisher Derby 2009 was held in the grounds of Bangalore Turf Club on July 12th, 2009. An extravaganza for the city?s elite, a wholesome entertainment for the everyone present and an excellent platform for some of the most famous horses of the country- the Kingfisher Derby was an indulgence for all.
The Kingfisher Derby has always been more than a venue for horse power. True to its brand association, it showcases entertainment as a definite character and has always been a must attend, must-be-seen-at event for all racing aficionados. Some of the hot favourite horses this year were Astral Flash, Aboline and Jacqueline. Amongst the throng of huge crowds gathered at the Bangalore Turf Club who cheered for their favourite horses, the ?Kingfisher Derby 2009? was the 6th race in line. In this year?s race, Aboline came first, followed by Jacqueline in second position. Third position was won by Astral Flash.
Started in 1988 as the first ever sponsorship by a corporate at the Bangalore Turf Club, this is the 22nd year of Kingfisher Derby. This year, the total prize money given out was over Rs. 1.25 crores, which incidentally is the 2nd largest prize money in India. The winner received prize money over Rs. 75 Lakhs. Last year at the 2008 Kingfisher Derby, the total prize money given out was in excess of 1.18 crores.
Speaking about the momentous event, Mr. Shekhar Ramamurthy, Deputy President, United Breweries Limited said, ?The Kingfisher Derby is a prestigious event for all of us at Kingfisher. The Kingfisher Derby represents one of our longest associations with sports is thereby a very special one for this city. The Kingfisher Derby is one event where thrill, excitement, glamour and entertainment fuse to make it a memorable occasion. Like earlier years, the Kingfisher Derby 2009 has once again succeeded in retaining its position as one of the richest, most prestigious and glamorous events in the country.?