3 minute read
The Jason Ong trained Special Ops appears poised to break through for his maiden win when due to contest the fourth event at Kranji on Sunday.
A model of consistency without winning, Special Ops has finished second at three of his four starts, most recently going down a whisker over 1400m.
He returned a new career peak on that occasion and now drops back in trip again to 1200m.
Not a conventional preparation, but the race shape of the 1400m event last start sees him suited over the shorter journey.
He also steps out onto the polytrack for the first time, but given how well he has trialled on it, I view it as another positive.
Leading rider Vlad Duric sticks aboard and he gets the winkers on for the first time.
Quite versatile he looks to get every chance from the middle draw and doesn't line up against any stars on Sunday.
There are a few first starters which can be scary, however on the exposed form he looks to set a decent marker.
Under the set-weights conditions, Special Ops appears very well treated and only looks to have to hold his form to be breaking through.
The Shane Baertschiger trained Mr Showman has mixed his form this time in, but is capable when right and notably gets the blinkers off.
Went too hard in the lead last start and if able to relax better at an even tempo, he should give them all something to run down.
When assessing Timeform weight adjusted ratings, his effort two back leaves him as the clear second pick and is worth another chance.
The Donna Logan trained Joon Ho wasn't beaten far in his Singapore debut and has since trialled well off a break.
Drawn to get a lovely run and shapes as one to consider.
Of the rest the Steven Burridge trained Lim's Bestbreaker appears the best of the rest.
Good luck and happy punting.
