Patrick Shaw – good man and he is doing well
Trainer Pat Shaw has been a force to be reckoned with in Singapore ever since he first made the trip to the Island. Sunday’s Poly Track Mile Championship was no different, writes Gareth Pepper.
The Shaw yard held a strong hand in the race, with their leading contender being Quechua, winner of last year’s Gold Cup and also the winner of the season opening New Years Day Cup.
He went to post a short priced favourite, but ironically it was his stablemate Slew Of Lode, under a masterful ride by John Powell that took the honours. He led from the start, and set a pace that suited him. He quickened well and won a terrific race.
His fancied stablemate was unlucky in the running but still managed to finish a creditable third
The winner came home in the Fred Crabbia silks, colours familiar to many South African racing fans. He won by 3 lengths and it was far and away the ride of the day, even the weekend, by John Powell.
Matters Of Interest
In the next few weeks I will be covering a range of items, including barrier trials and also getting to know the local horsemen that ply their trade in Singapore.
From a personal angle, I have settled in well here and although the constant humidity is something to get used to, especially for a slim and trim guy like me, I am loving every minute I spend here.
The food is diverse and I have approached it with an open mind.
I frequent the local Hawker Centres.
They are cheap and offer contrasting and fresh foods combined with Indian, Malay and other influences from around Asia. They make for interesting dining that is also affordable.
These centres are scattered around the islands and a piece of advice that I have learnt is on the mark, is to go for what the locals eat – and you can’t go wrong.
Pain And Sweat
Kranji Racecourse – I enjoy this place
Although I have experienced some spicy food that ignited instant pain and sweats, similar to eating molten lava, through my body, it has been fun and the locals are very proud of their varying takes on their best meals and the people- watching is truly fascinating.
This country has so much to offer and I look forward to exploring the many attractions available. It is pricy but worth it.
The expat community is big here and I have been made to feel very welcome by all.
The opinions, knowledge and outlook by a diversity of folk makes for interesting listening and I have learnt so much in my short time here.
This Weekend
This coming weekend sees the Merlion Trophy run and a couple of big names will make their presence felt.
Pat Shaw’s Magneto, a last start winner, El Padrino who trialled extremely well recently and Pachelbel’s Canon makes his debut for Michael Clements. The latter has a strong string to his name and this could be another to join the long list of recent successes for him.
Also keep an eye out for Knight Wager who won the last on Saturday under Michael Rodd,. He looks above average and gives the impression that he will be very successful here.
Till next time.
