Sunday saw the running of the Gr3 Committee’s Prize and it was one of the best finishes we have seen in recent times, writes Gareth Pepper.
Gareth Pepper
The finish was fought out by Kirks Ryker, Patrick Shaw trained and Corey Brown ridden, and the game and gallant Twickenham, Stephen Gray trained and Vlad Duric ridden.
The latter prevailed after the judges took what felt like forever to decide on the winner and the victory was remarkable as the eventual winner was headed and looked beaten at the 150m marker. If you have not seen it, it is a race worth watching!
Horses to follow – Michael Clements had a winner on Friday evening that was out of the top drawer. His horse, Keltic Karma, returned after a 16 month break to win in early August and this past Friday scored again to make it two wins on the trot.
A fantastic training achievement by Michael and he looks to have a serious horse on his hands.
Sunday again produced some fantastic racing but the standout performance for me was that of Lim’s Cruiser.
Stephen Gray trains the son of Casino Prince (AUS) and he destroyed his field. He is the most exciting up-and-coming horse in Singapore for me and I would recommend following this guy with interest – I feel he is headed straight to the top!
Talking about the top, Vlad Duric celebrated a highly successful weekend and shot to a four win lead in the Jockeys premiership. Last year’s champion Manoel Nunes is in second and Corey Brown is hot on their heels in third spot.
Milestone
One of the nicest and most friendly people around Singapore is our very own Barend Vorster and he celebrated a magnificent milestone on Friday evening.
Barend Vorster and his lovely wife, Nikki
He rode his 700th winner in Singapore.
Barend started riding in Singapore in 2003 and won the premiership in 2004. He has tasted a great deal of success here and highlights include winning the Krisflyer sprint on Ato.
It was fitting that he rode his milestone winner for our very own Pat Shaw, who has supported him from the word go here.
I can tell you that not only is he doing SA proud on the racetrack but he possesses Braai skills that would win him an award back home.
Here’s wishing you many more Boet – congratulations!
