3 minute read

The Shane Baertschiger trained Hardcore appears well placed to return to the winner's stall when set to contest the tenth event at Kranji on Saturday.

Formerly trained by Cliff Brown, Hardcore joined Baertschiger's team late last year and made his return over 1200m last month.

At his best at a mile and beyond he wasn't given much respect in the Kranji Stakes A event sent out at 30-1 by the bookies.

Ridden by Matthew Kellady he settled towards the rear before staying on well in the straight finishing fourth behind Kharisma.

Last weekend's dominant winner Mr Malek finished ahead of him third in what is already shaping up as a good form race.

Hardcore now drops back to a Class 3 event and champion rider Vlad Duric legs aboard for the first time.

The step up to 1400m is another tick and he's drawn to receive all the favours.

When assessing Timeform weight adjusted ratings he rates clear off his first up performance and with further improvement expected he looks very hard to beat.

The Mark Walker trained Savvy Command chases the hat-trick and looms as the main danger.

An impressive Class 4 winner two back he successfully made the jump to Class 3 company last start when again too good.

The handicapper hasn't missed this time though with Savvy Command rising 3kg as a result.

Not an easy task however he has placed in five of six attempts on the turf track and has won two of four attempts over this trip.

He will have to improve to beat Hardcore however he is flying and obviously commands plenty of respect.

Stablemate Axel comes into this on the fresh side (49 days) having also won last start in Class 3 company.

Given a soft trial in the lead up he will need some luck from the wide draw but is expected to run well.

Of the rest the consistent Gold Star appears the next in line.

Good luck and happy punting.