Chief guest Riya Sen was a showstopper all the way dressed in a pair of flared jeans and a metallic halter-neck top teamed with a belt and matching shades. “I have been coming to the races in Kolkata for ever, because I am born and brought up here. My dad has also given away the Cooch Behar Cup over here many times. I think this is one of the most thrilling events Kolkata has and its always amazing to come back here. Each time you come, its super, super exciting and entertaining. Being a chief guest today feels special, as many from my family have been the same in the past.... It was great fun as I watched the race from the car and I had the best time!” smiled the beautiful actress.

Tennis pros Leander Paes and Enrico Piperno were two of the most enthusiastic supporters at RCTC that afternoon.

“We have five classics coming up this season and today’s was the first. All of them, including the prestigious New Year’s Day race are being powered by Wolf 777, who are associating with RCTC for the first time. We are proud to host an impressive number of celebrities for today’s race and the response from everyone, including a very large, knowledgeable crowd has been excellent. Things are looking much brighter for this winter for RCTC and I thank everyone for being here and supporting the event, said,” RCTC CEO Shivaji Dutt.

American Center director Adrian Pratt (extreme left) spent an enjoyable afternoon with friends, basking in the warm, wintry sun and soaking in the lively atmosphere on the first race day of the season. “Its always lovely to come out here and enjoy one of the city’s finest traditions,” he said.

Jockeys of the RCTC 1000 Guineas at the meet-and-greet session with actresses Munmun Dutta and Riya Sen, before the start of the race.

One for the album. RCTC 1000 Guineas winners — trainer Vijay Singh and jockey Suraj Narredu, with winning horse Success. “I am glad we could pull it off. Success is a small filly, but with a very big heart. I think Vijay (Singh) Sir has done a fantastic job with her to keep her going. There was a bit of a rough patch in the race, but I eased her off; I had that confidence in my filly. I pulled her out and she gave a brilliant response. I am glad we could make it and hopefully she will do wonders in the next races as well,”said Suraj Narredu. Vijay Singh, a veteran of many wins, was ecstatic. “A classic comes in a horse’s career only at the age of three or four, and this being the 1000 Guineas which is only meant for fillies it was important that a small filly like Success kept her image by winning this race specially after she had won the Calcutta Monsoon Derby. I was happy to see that she did it in style and I hope she continues with her winning streak,” said Vijay Singh.