3 minute read

Progressive stayer In Fact appears well placed to return to the winner's stall this evening, when set to contest the seventh event at Singapore.

Trained by Patrick Shaw, the son of Lode has raced in great order this preparation, placing in six of his last eight starts.

A notable third behind Knight's Command in the Group 3 Woolands Classic Stakes, In Fact also boasts a narrow defeat behind his stablemate Quechua in the Group 3 New Year Cup.

Not seen for 47 days, the lightly raced four-year-old was given a solid hit-out at the trials in preparation for his return.

Ridden by Nooresh Juglall, In Fact settled towards the rear, before peeling the widest runner on straightening — letting down strongly to salute by half a length.

While the overall time wasn't slick, In Fact appeared to do it easily and appears in great order.

Using Timeform weight adjusted ratings, In Fact appears very well placed and is still open to further improvement.

He has placed in two of three attempts on the polytrack and while untried over this specific trip, it should post no concerns — his form at both 1800m and 1900m is very strong and he is likely to perform well fresh.

From the inside draw, Juglall is expected to roll forward and settle right on the speed, with the Leslie Khoo trained Goodpack likely to take up the running from the wide draw.

Since breaking through for his first victory in November last year, In Fact has continued to raise the bar and is clearly heading in the right direction.

His latest performance saw him notch up a new career peak and if able to follow a similar progression, he should prove very hard to beat this evening.

The in-form Goodpack appears one of the main dangers, following his solid performance in the Group 3 Fortune Bowl last start.

Sticking on solidly, after attempting to lead throughout, the son of Elvstroem displayed good improvement and appears set to peak racing third up.

Goodpack has placed in seven of 11 attempts at this track and does appear well placed after the aid of the claim.

The wide draw shapes as his main hindrance, as he will likely have to do a bit of work, to cross and find the front.

Nonetheless, he rates well using Timeform weight adjusted ratings and if able to gain the lead without using much petrol, he should give them all something to chase.

The David Kok trained Bourbon Goldman appears the next best, having placed in four of his last seven starts.

Unsuited in the slowly run event last start, he hit the line strongly behind Alexandra Palace and gives the impression he should appreciate the step up in trip.

Not seen for 56 days, he too has trialled in the lead up and appears on-track to continue his good form.

Bourbon Goldman has placed in five of eight attempts on the polytrack and is expected to settle just off the speed from the wide draw.

On best form he rates well and shapes as one of the leading contenders.

Of the rest the Laurie Laxon trained Dujardin appears the next best, stepping up in trip.

Forced to make a long sustained run in the Group 3 Polytrack Mile Championship, Dujardin was entitled to weaken on his run late and can improve in this event.

The in-form Michael Rodd links aboard for the first time and a return to his best form should see him right around the mark.

Good luck and happy punting.