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Trainer John O'Hara's has been having some success with US-bred gallopers of late and it continued on Sunday when Flash Gift scored a debut win in the $65,000 Initiation Stakes over 1100m on the Polytrack.
Photo by Singapore Turf Club
Sent out the $9 favourite, Flash Gift led throughout in scoring a soft three-and-three-quarter length victory over Champagne Rose (Saimee Jumaat) with Gusha (Koh Teck Huat) two-and-a-half lengths away third.
O'Hara was successful with the US-bred Emerald Hill on Friday night and Flash Gift was equally as impressive.
Both gallopers are owned by Saratoga Stable.
O'Hara said Flash Gift was a “good horse” but wouldn't be drawn on saying which of the two gallopers was better at this stage.
“I think this (Flash Gift) is a good horse,” said O'Hara. “He did quite a bit wrong today but was still impressive in winning.
“I think there is quite a deal of improvement to come from him and when he puts it altogether he will be a good horse.
“He's got a good engine in there.”
Joao Moreira had ridden Flash Gift at his two barrier trials in preparation for his debut but missed the ride through suspension.
Cheyne was impressed with the debut performance of the gelding which recorded the smart time of 1min 05.18secs.
“He can certainly run,” said Cheyne. “And when he learns how to race properly he will be even better.
“It was lucky that I had a horse on my outside. He wanted to get away from fence coming around the turn so I just let his momentum carry him into the straight.
“I just waited for him to balance up into the straight and then I asked him for his effort and he responded very well.
“I think he's a horse that will go through his divisions quite quickly.
“He's a nice horse.”
A three-year-old, Flash Gift is by Lawyer Ron from the Confide mare Weekend Star and is raced by the Saratoga Stable.