3 minute read

The Group 1 Singapore Guineas sees the much hyped rematch of Countofmontecristo and Jupiter Gold with the latter expected to come out on top.

The former was simply too good in the Group 2 Singapore 3YO Classic [1400m], however Jupiter Gold appears on track to turn the tables.

Built up as a match race (combined the two held 86.75% of the market), Countofmontecristo would land the first blow, further pushing his claims as the best 3YO in Singapore — though in truth, Jupiter Gold was disappointing.

Ridden very negatively, Jupiter Gold was simply left with too much to do and as a result was unable to wear down Countofmontecristo in the straight.

From a form perspective, Jupiter Gold was six lengths below his best, having defeated Singapore Horse Of The Year Debt Collector at his start prior.

If able to get back to that level of form, he certainly sets a decent standard for his rivals this evening.

Unbeaten in two previous attempts over the mile, Jupiter Gold was 42 days between runs last start and should strip a lot fitter.

No question this has been his grand final since all along and although he has again received no favours with the draw, it's hard to see Munro missing the boat again.

His closing sectionals over the mile two back when beating Debt Collector were very impressive and if close enough, he should prove very hard to hold out.

Not since the likes of War Affair have we seen a three-year-old return such a high rating pre-Singapore Guineas [1600m].

War Affair returned a Timeform rating of 115 when blitzing his rivals in the 2014 Singapore Guineas, with a career peak rating of 123 achieved in the 2014 Group 1 Raffles Cup [1800m].

While we are not saying Jupiter Gold is the next War Affair, early signs indicate that he is not far off if able to get back to that form.

Under the set weights conditions, he holds a distinct edge and can return to the winner's stall.

Countofmontecristo beat Jupiter Gold fair and square last start and is certainly expected to make his presence felt.

While Jupiter Gold may have had excuses, take nothing away from Countofmontecristo, he has continued to raise the bar and given his racing pattern (on-speed), he is the one they will all have to get past.

Last start Countofmontecristo was rated alongside past winners Spanish Bay and coincidentally Gingerbread Man (same owner).

Better Than Ever remains the highest rated victor of the Group 2 Singapore 3YO Classic having saluted by seven lengths in 2010.

From the favourable draw, he should be right there from the outset and if Jupiter Gold is off his game, Countofmontecristo is the one they will all have to beat.

The Cliff Brown trained Could Be Pearls took a good step forward behind Countofmontecristo last start and has to be respected with Michael Rodd back aboard.

A winner of three of his six starts, Could Be Pearls has come a long way this time in and should be able to settle closer to the speed stepping up to the mile.

This stable/jockey/owner combination won this race last year with Debt Collector and while not in the same league (yet), he still commands respect.

Of the rest the James Peters trained Skywalk appears the next in line.

While no match for the above three in the lead up, he has to be respected stepping up to the mile for the first time.

Although drawn awkwardly, he can roll forward and should be in this for a long way.

Good luck and happy punting.