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Russian billionaire Valentin Bukhtoyarov's Limario, his sole entrant in next Sunday's $3 million International Group 1 Singapore Airlines International Cup (2000m), arrived safely on Thursday night.
Trained by American Doug Watson, who has been based in the United Arab Emirates for more than 20 years, the four-year-old chestnut colt flew in from the Sharjah International Airport and landed at Changi Airport at around 9.35pm before being transported to his stables at the Singapore Turf Club.
He was accompanied by Watson's assistant trainer Noel Joseph Connolly and a groom.
Dr Kieran Finn, veterinary surgeon at the STC, reported that all was fine with the German-bred galloper.“Nothing odd to report,” he said. “He walked out of his mobile stable and was pretty relaxed. He wasn't dehydrated and looks to have travelled quite well.
“The guys who came with him were happy with him. They said he ate and drank well and there was no problems at all. We'll take some urine samples later and if his connections want we can run other tests but everything seems fine.”
By Areion out of Limaga, Limario has two wins from his six starts in Germany, both at Group level, and last featured in the Group 2 Goldolphin Mile (1600m) at the Dubai World Cup Night on March 29, finishing sixth behind winner Variety Club. He will be ridden by jockey Pat Dobbs in next Sunday's feature race.
Watson, 49, has been crowned UAE champion trainer three times (2005-06, 2007-08 and 2008-09) and is making his second appearance in Singapore's biggest raceday.
Last year he saddled Meandre (SIA Cup) and Dux Scholar (KrisFlyer), both finishing ninth in their respective events.