Aslam Kader: A relentless spirit and master finisher in Indian horse racing

By Harsh Thakor*

Aslam Kader stood as a symbol of relentless determination and exceptional finishing prowess—perhaps unmatched by any jockey in Indian horse racing history. Charismatic, fiercely competitive, and immensely popular, Aslam captivated racing fans across the country with his tenacity and skill.

More than just a jockey, Aslam was the embodiment of passion and commitment. He believed that true success is born from wholehearted dedication, and that one should follow the calling of the heart, never settling for a path imposed by others. Despite his diminutive frame, his strength and flawless rhythm in the saddle made him a force to reckon with.

Aslam had an uncanny ability to lift a horse from hopeless situations and drive it to dramatic victories, creating unforgettable memories for racing fans. Few jockeys in India have ever been able to tap into a horse’s hidden reserves the way Aslam did. His rise to the top was rare, and he maintained the discipline required to keep his riding weight low throughout his career.

Sadly, 25 years ago, Aslam Kader hung up his boots after a career-ending fall at the beginning of the 2003 Pune racing season. The ovation he received during his farewell remains etched in the hearts of those who witnessed it.

Aslam Kader's defining trait was his unmatched finishing ability. His grit, timing, and explosive power enabled him to win races by the narrowest margins—time and again. Even the great Pesi Shroff once admitted that when Aslam was at full throttle, he was nearly unbeatable in a close finish, citing 21 instances in a single season where Aslam edged him out.

Witnessing Aslam bring a struggling horse back into contention to clinch victory was a common sight—he seemed to will them to life. No Indian jockey has showcased such consistency and drive in tight finishes as Aslam did.

Ironically, Aslam’s journey into racing began far from the stables. He worked as a mechanic at a local garage and would sneak glances of the races from outside the track on Sundays. Living near the racecourse, his fascination grew as he and his friends regularly watched the action. Inspired by riders like Jagdish, Nelson Reuben, Vasant Shinde, and Mick Kinane, Aslam dreamed of one day riding a thoroughbred at full speed.

In 1975, he enrolled at the Apprentice Jockey’s School in Pune, securing his license by 1978. His first employer was Nooruddin Khalil, who was hired by prominent owner Y.M. Chowdhury.

Aslam rode an extraordinary 1,717 winners, including over 80 classic races. His first winner came aboard Hennessey in 1979. Among his most memorable victories was his triumph in the Indian Derby and Invitation Cup on Elusive Pimpernel in 1995—his last major win.

Between the 1980s and early 2000s, Aslam and fellow legend Vasant Shinde dominated Indian racing. Their legendary rivalry, which included sharing more than 200 classic races, was marked not by animosity but mutual respect. They often exchanged insights and advice off the track.

In the 1993-94 Mumbai season, Aslam matched the world record of Sir Gordon Richards by winning six consecutive races in a single day. He also holds the record for the most wins in a Mumbai season—77 victories.

Nicknamed AK-47 for his light frame (weighing 47 kg), Aslam won three Indian Derbies—on Astonish (1992), Astronomic (1993), and Elusive Pimpernel (1995). He also captured two Indian Turf Invitation Cups—on Super Brave (1994) and again on Elusive Pimpernel (1995). Other notable mounts include Classic Style, Academic, Astounding, Treasure Wind, Charon, Sir Bruce, Menorah, and his personal favorite Astounding, winner of the Bangalore Derby.

Aslam was retained by leading owner Deepak Khaitan and won numerous prestigious races for him. He claimed jockey championships across all major racing centers in India, winning three times in Mumbai and nine times in Bangalore.

He hailed Elusive Pimpernel as the greatest horse he ever rode—not only for its victories, but for its intelligence and ease of handling. Watching Aslam astride the champion colt was like witnessing poetry in motion.

Among Aslam’s most unforgettable rides were his short-head win on Astonish over La Bon Vie in the 1992 Indian Derby, his explosive surge on Astronomic in the 1993 Derby, and his power-packed finish aboard Super Brave in the 1994 Invitation Cup. His expert navigation on Astana in the 1999 Stayers Cup remains another testament to his sublime riding artistry.

However, his career was not without controversy. He faced two major suspensions: one for allegedly not allowing Exotic to run on merit (earning a two-year ban), and another on odds-on favorite Rollerball, which led to a three-year suspension after he pleaded guilty. Aslam later admitted to stopping Rollerball, claiming it wasn’t for money but refusing to reveal the real reason—leaving fans speculating whether it was due to coercion or threats. These incidents slightly tarnished an otherwise illustrious career.

Despite setbacks, Aslam’s deep faith in God and unwavering resilience helped him bounce back. He credited trainer Dara Pandole for shaping his career, and revered Rashid Byramji’s exceptional judgement, which led to crucial wins—most notably on Astronomic and Altenburg.

Aslam remained grateful to top owners like Deepak Khaitan and M.A.M. Ramaswamy, and acknowledged his wife’s unwavering support, especially during trying times. He believed it was her prayers that saved him from grave injury during a fall in Pune.

Even after his retirement in 2003 due to a collarbone injury, Aslam continued to mentor aspiring jockeys, sharing the wisdom of a lifetime spent at the pinnacle of Indian racing.

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*Freelance journalist

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