Trainer Malesh Narredu talks about furlongs under floodlights, as gates slam open for evening racing at Mahalaxmi Racecourse

Malesh Narredu, successful horse trainer in western India, was a former ace jockey. In 2009, he visited Qatar on the invitation of Sheikh Mishal, the son of the ruler of Qatar, to ride his horses.

Also read: Studs race at night on the Mahalaxmi racecourse

Malesh Narredu, (r) now a successful trainer

There, he raced under the floodlights, riding eight winners. Malesh hung up his riding boots four years ago, to take up a trainer's career.

Light up the night. Pic Courtesy: Asilo rooftop, St. Regis hotel, Lower Parel

"I used to go almost every week to Qatar to ride for the Sheikh," Malesh said.

"It was a new experience riding under the floodlights but not significantly different.

The lighting was so good, it was like you were riding in daylight. I remember I rode my first winner in my second ride, and was elated."

Also read: Silver lining for night racing at Mahalaxmi racecourse

Talking specifically about Mahalaxmi, he says, "Evenings being cooler, racing will be kinder to horses, especially as we move into the summer months. Also, this sport is always known as a thrilling sport, but night racing takes this experience to a different level. For most of my friends who witnessed it last year, it was ‘breathtaking'."

Malesh will be saddling seven runners on today's card, two of them, Shivalik Shine and Ice Cube Baby, will be participating under the floodlights in the last two races.