3 minute read

The Group 2 Stewards' Cup was built up as a race in two, however the Michael Clements trained Alibi had other ideas when too strong on-speed in the feature event.

Combined Lim's Cruiser and Debt Collector held 86% of the market, however both failed to really mount a winning challenge.

An impressive winner first up, Alibi went on to finish second behind Lim's Cruiser in the Group 1 Lion City Cup [1200m].

On that occasion, Alibi didn't have a lot of luck and arguably should have finished a lot closer, after being tightened for room at the start, before blocked for a run in the straight.

On Sunday, Alibi enjoyed a far better run in transit, parked outside the lead by jockey Glen Boss.

Unlike the Lion City Cup, Alibi got a jump on his main rivals and after travelling boldly, he gave plenty when cut loose inside the 300m.

Displaying a good turn of foot, Alibi established a 1L margin over Infantry and really dug deep late to score by half a length.

Both Lim's Cruiser and Debt Collector settled a long way back and while both giving a brief sight down the outside, they were unable to wear down Alibi, finishing third and fourth respectively.

While it was no shock to see Debt Collector at the rear, it was surprising to see Lim's Cruiser settle that far back, given he possesses enough early speed to settle closer — in the end it would bring about his undoing.

Having returned a new career peak in the Lion City, Alibi proceeded to take a another step forward on Sunday and is clearly heading the right way.

War Affair remains the highest ever rated winner of the Stewards' Cup with Alibi rated ahead of past winners Titanium, Emperor Max and Speedy Cat.

Only lightly raced, Alibi has won six of his 11 starts, placing on a further four occasions.

His only blemish came in last year's Group 2 EW Barker Trophy [1400m] when finishing fifth behind Lim's Cruiser.

In what is just his second preparation, Alibi's victory was no fluke and he remains open to further improvement — expect him to receive a lot more market respect next time out.

Only two lengths separated the first four across the line on Sunday and when looking towards the Group 1 Patron's Bowl [1600m], it's hard to see the winner coming from outside these placegetters: Alibi, Infantry, Lim's Cruiser and Debt Collector.

However the final leg of the series, the Group 1 Singapore Derby [2000m] is another story, with the staying trip adding a new dimension, previously unseen by the above.

Of the beaten brigade, suggest Debt Collector has the capacity to turn the tables as while disappointing, he will relish the step up to the mile.

In what was his first start since Dubai (64 days), he should strip a lot fitter following that effort and has won three of four attempts over 1600m.

When assessing his best form, he still has a fair bit up his sleeve and he can certainly reaffirm his place at the top of the Singapore tree.

Although many (including myself) felt this 4YO series could become a bit one-sided, Alibi's victory illustrated that it is certainly game on.