It used to be called the jinx of the new millennium and today it got a Diabolical touch to it. For the last six years no favourite had won the Indian Derby and 2007 was no different.Nothing can stop Southern Empire, they said, and the pre-race 30/100 odds just substantiated those claims. But the cunning designs of Diabolical, Southern Empires stable-mate, in the final stretch ended the wonder horse’s streak and, more importantly, re-enforced the most important aspect of horse racing — unpredictability.As Mahalaxmi witnessed its biggest ever Derby Day crowd the buzz was about watching the wonder horse Southern Empire and the speculations were about the margin with which he wins. Diabolical, who like Southern Empire is owned by Dr MAM Ramaswamy and trained by S Ganapthy, with 10/1 was at best seen as a podium finisher if not merely an also-ran.But as Southern Empire struggled in the final stages there were enough ‘oohs and aahs’ from the fashion-conscious member stands that had Bollywood stars like Viveik Oberoi and Derby Day regulars from the Kapoor family.Kicked by the upset and familiar with the Bollywood-type ‘victory of the underdog’ race theme, Oberoi was heard saying, “Yahi to racing ka fun hai”. But for owner Dr Ramaswamy it was tough to decide if he would whole-hearted rejoice after Diabolical win or be pensive about Southern Empire’s loss. “Both had chance to win sadly it was not the champion we thought but it was second choice who won. But one cannot take away the credit from Diabolical,” he said.
