Dwyer lands Indian Derby on star filly

Report: India, Sunday

Mumbai: McDowell Signature Premier Indian Derby (Grade 1) 1m4f, 4yo

MARTIN DWYER, who memorably partnered Sir Percy to victory in the 2006 Derby, added another Classic to his cv on Sunday when partnering star filly In The Spotlight (Sadakshara Padmanabhan) to victory in the Indian Derby.

Already successful in the Calcutta Oaks, 1,000 Guineas and Calcutta Derby under Dwyer, In The Spotlight stamped her class on India's premier Classic, routing a high-class field by upwards of seven lengths.

A trip to Dubai's World Cup meeting is now under consideration for In The Spotlight, who was given a positive ride by Dwyer. He said."This is a very talented filly at a mile and a half and therefore I made the first move because I knew she'd outstay most of them.

"Soon after turning into the straight we had a five length advantage and we soon put the race to bed. Everything went smoothly for her."

With In The Spotlight having now won a fourth Classic, trainer Sadakshara Padmanabhan will consider a visit to Dubai for a 1m6f Listed race. Dwyer added."I understand it's an option for her, particularly as the quarantine requirements are now easier than they were previously.

"This fillycertainly has the class to win in Listed/Group3 company in Britain and who knows?"

Richard Hughes's mount, Hills And Stars, was well-beaten in seventh, while Field Marshal - on whom Dwyer won the Bangalore 2,000 Guineas - finished third under David Allan.