3 minute read
Trainer Shane Baertschiger’s newcomer Wassergeist underlined his potential with a soft win at his first Kranji barrier trial on Tuesday morning even when he was not 100% ready.
Ridden by John Powell, the Fastnet Rock four-year-old took a drop in third spot, conceding as much as seven lengths on joint leaders Target (track rider) and Sebastian Bach (A’Isisuhairi Kasim) down the hill before cutting them back from the 300m.
Though not fully extended, Wassergeist, which means water sprite in German, went straight past the two leaders to score easing down by two and a half lengths from Nova Factor (Raquel Clark).
The fluent win didn’t surprise Baertschiger who used to race him in partnership with other owners in Australia under trainers Trent Busuttin and Natalie Young’s care. Wassergeist was once thought of as Group 1 Caulfield Guineas material following his maiden win in a 1400m race at Sandown in September 2017.
They eventually switched their aim towards the Group 1 Coolmore Stud Stakes (1200m), via the Group 2 Stutt Stakes (1600m) at Moonee Valley, but Wassergeist didn’t live up to the lofty expectations.
He then had a break followed by two preps, winning one race over 1200m at Pakenham in six more starts before Baertschiger decided to bring him to Singapore.
“We had big plans for him, but it didn’t quite work out. He won two races for Trent in Australia, and after we felt he had reached his mark, it was time to bring him here,” said Baertschiger.
“He’s been here for three months and has come along well but he’s probably still around three weeks away from his first race here.
“I was happy with his first trial today. I’ll give him another one and then find a race for him.”
Powell concurred with Baertschiger that Wassergeist was not fully wound up even after Tuesday’s impressive hit-out.
“He had a good reputation in Australia and he trialled well today,” said the Australian rider.
“He travelled well throughout and finished off nicely, but he’s probably only 70% fit. He needs one more trial.
“I’ve watched his races back home and I think he’s a better horse when ridden second or third last. They tried racing him on the speed and he was one-paced – he’s better ridden quiet.”
