3 minute read
The Shane Baertschiger trained Nepean appears well placed to make a winning debut in Singapore when due to contest the final event.
Formerly based in Australia under the care of James Cummings, Nepean displayed good ability in his four starts and has since been gelded.
Nepean broke through for his maiden at his second start, having only been narrowly beaten on debut behind the Team Hawkes trained Thaad.Lining up at Randwick over 1400m, Nepean always appeared in firm control when winning easily under Glyn Schofield.
Thrown in the deep end at his next two starts, Nepean wasn't disgraced and appears very well placed in this Class 4 event.Although it is never easy for horses to replicate their best form when on debut in a new environment, he has looked sharp enough in recent trials and appears to have acclimatized well.
From the middle draw he can adopt a forward position and while likely to be better over further, he certainly can sprint well fresh.When assessing Timeform weight adjusted ratings, Nepean holds a clear class edge over his rivals and if close to his best, he should prove very hard to beat.
The Cliff Brown trained Baffert has only been fair in two runs in Singapore, but has since trialled very well and remains under strong notice with Rodd aboard.Baffert finished a close fourth in his Singapore debut before safely held behind Really Capable last start.
Since kept fresh (40 days), Baffert has trialled twice in the lead up and appears ready to rock and roll.On his prior best form in Australia he is well placed and looms as a major threat.
The Michael Clements trained Stock Broker returned to form behind Northern Sun last start and has to be included in the main hopes.A winner of five of his 50 starts, he has placed on a further 14 occasions and possesses a solid record over this trip.
Should get a lovely run from the inside draw and cannot be taken lightly.Of the rest the James Peters trained Lim's Blast appears the next in line.
An eye catching trial winner in the lead up, he is more than capable on best form and has to be included.Good luck and happy punting.