The touch of the master’s hand or simply ‘Byramji effect’

He rewrote the record books setting the bar at a mark which is unlikely to be surpassed

Rashid Byramji who breathed his last on Saturday,the 29th January, 2022, was a man who became a legend in his lifetime and will remain one forever. Born on Guy Fawkes Day in 1934, he shared a birthday, albeit one year apart, with none other than Lester Piggott. An incredible coincidence and both were masters of their profession.

Rashid was arguably the greatest trainer that India has seen in recent times. He rewrote the record books setting the bar at a mark which is unlikely to be surpassed. In a star-studded career that began in 1956, Rashid stood out like a colossus. Close to 3200 winners; 230 Classics; 10 Indian Derbies (not counting three that were saddled by his assistants) 12 Invitation Cups are statistics that will forever exemplify his brilliance.

He stamped his authority even further by being crowned Champion Trainer no less than 42 times winning 11 Bangalore Summer Championships on the trot.