Champion Spalato returned in scintillating fashion in the third race in Singapore last Sunday. He defied 59,5kg’s to mark his 2016 comeback in style.
Spalato – won easily
The son of Elusive City , although very well handicapped, had it all to do and after some scintillating trackwork and a very professional recent trial the stage was set for a positive return.
Under replacement rider Corey Brown, deputising for the injured Michael Rodd, he jumped well from the widest gate of all and cruised in under a few reminders of the persuader. Eased down at the line, he was 0,17s outside of the track record which has been held since 2011 and it was a return that could not have been scripted better.
Graham Mackie, a long time patron and supporter of the Turf Club was all smiles as I chatted to him post race and hinted that the lure of Dubai – pending an Invite – seemed to be on the cards. If invited, he could be joining El Padrino and Kiwi Karma as they all head to the Middle East to represent Singapore.
Corey Brown – good to have him back
Corey was full of praise for the star galloper after being booked at late notice to ride him. His closing 400 – finish of 22.25 looked effortless and Brown praised the horse for a professional and forward effort.
It is good to have him back!
Theo Keiser has made a very slow start to 2016, but over the last two weeks his fortunes have changed.
He has saddled 5 winners in a brief period and the likeable Saffer saddled the winner of the Kranji C in Sebas, race 9.
He really has done well with his purchases, and although he may not feature in the top five or ten in the trainers premiership, he is a stable that delivers results for their patrons and his horses really do run well to form.
I caught up with him at the track this week and it seems he has some really nice youngsters coming through the yard so we will keep an eye on Oom and his yard!
Till next time
