The 2015 Singapore racing season has come to an end and what a thrill it has been, writes Gareth Pepper.
Manoel Nunes wins on Kiwi Karma
Manoel Nunes took out the Jockey’s title with 123 winners and won by a very big margin of 36 winners. Well done to the Brazilian on his second consecutive title, and I expect him to go close to capturing it again in 2016.
Mark Walker won the Trainer’s title and he got the season off to a good start after a quiet patch in the mid -section of the year.
But he continued to fire and I must commend him.
Both he and his assistant trrainer Gus are always so friendly and open with information from their stable and the former New Zealand champion trainer now has another title to add to his CV.
Young Talent
Rizuan Shafiq took out the apprentice title and also broke the 150 winner mark for the season.
I will make a statement: he is a youngster of immense talent and I have no doubt in my mind that he could hold his own anywhere in the world.
I predict a top 4 finish for him in next year’s senior riding ranks.
Presenting here is completely different to back home.
It’s all we do and it makes a difference when you only have one job to focus on. I cannot believe I’ve been here for a year already and although sometimes challenging, I wouldn’t change my mind if given the option. I look forward to 2016 and all it has to offer here in Singapore.
I felt it would be apt to suggest my own awards.
Let’s start with a top rider.
Gavin Lerena
Jockey of the year: Gavin Lerena. – he is an old friend, who deservedly won the SA title.
But what impressed me the most is how he handled himself on the world stage in Hong Kong. Another South African who showed he can hold his own anywhere in the world!
What an achievement – I know it is just the beginning for this talented man.
Pat Shaw – top man
Trainer of the Year: In Singapore, Pat Shaw.
His dominance of the feature races including both the Derby with Quechua and the Gold Cup with Cooptado shows he is still a master of his trade and I am just so grateful to get the opportunity every now and then to pick his brain and share a laugh at the track.
Horse of the year: Stepitup – what a horse.
Weighing around 440kgs the little horse has had a phenominal year, including two Gr1’s. His heart is as big as him and what a story he turned out to be.
Dedicated
Media personality: Mike Lee – based here at the Turf Club. He always has time for a chat, is dedicated, super helpful and his articles are of the highest order, extracting vital information before and after the races.
It is no wonder he is the reigning media winner here in Singapore and I would be surprised if he didn’t take the title at next years awards. If you are not following his articles on the Singapore Turf Club website, you are missing out.
I must thank my colleagues Craig and Matt who continually push me to better my skills and they have been a huge help here.
Mike Wanklin has been a terrific sounding board too and offers valuable info when needed.
Debbie Hawkins has always been kind. She is loved by all here at the Turf Club and has really been a wonderful support system – not just to me but many of us here at the Club.
Another team that needs a mention are our editors, Wei Ling, Joyce, Bobby and Kelvin.
The best I have had the pleasure of working with they are total professionals who too would hold their own anywhere they plied d their trade. They make all the presenter’s jobs that much easier and I would seriously be under pressure without them.
Till next time.
