DESERT GOD V/S ALAINDAIR

CLASH OF TITANS DESERT GOD V/S ALAINDAIR
THE PRESIDENT OF INDIA GOLD CUP 2016
Multi Classic winner Desert God (Burden Of Proof-Running Flame / Kunigal Stud) from the stables of S.Padmanabhan added another feather to its cap while winning the prestigious President Of India Gold Cup (Gr.I) at Hyderabad on Sunday. It was a befitting finish to the coveted 2400 metres race with two champions Alaindair and Desert God fighting every inch of the last 300 metres. The going was on the softer side with overnight rain and intermittent showers between races.
It has been a dream run for Desert God with the 4 year old champion winning its last eight starts and its total earnings to soaring to almost 7 crores, a feat unparalleled at that age. Jockey A. Sandesh was at his best while driving home Desert God by a quarter of a length.
Sea Lord hit the front as the four runners took off followed by Booker Jones, Desert God and Alaindair. Booker Jones forged ahead near the mile marker and there was no other change in the order. Desert God started to make a forward move passing the 600 metres board and Alaidair was also quickly on its haunches. The two champions came in almost together on the home stretch and started to fight it out. Inside the last 200 metres Alaindair looked to have an upper hand from the outside but Sandesh rode like one processed close to the rails and the chestnut colt responded gallantly under wet conditions to edge out Alaindair by a long neck. A distance behind was Booker Jones in third.