3 minute read
The Shane Baertschiger trained Wassergeist appears well placed to make a winning debut when due to contest the fifth event at Singapore this evening.
Formerly trained in Australia, Wassergeist won two of his 12 attempts for the Busuttin & Young stable, before being transferred to Singapore.
A listed placegetter at Caulfield in his maiden preparation, Wassergeist left Australian shores rated 95 by Timeform, a figure which would see him very competitive in Singapore.
While failing to feature in the finish since April last year (five starts), he was tested against much tougher company and is sure to appreciate the drop in class.
Off the scene for 219 days, Wassergeist has had the two trials in the lead up, most recently winning narrowly over 1000m.
Settled back in the field, he really let down well in the straight, gobbling up the Leslie Khoo trained Lord O'Reilly in the shadows of the post.
Already a Class 3 winner, Lord O'Reilly gives us a good line on just how well Wassergeist is travelling and he doesn't line up against any stars this evening.
From the awkward draw he is expected to settle in the back-half of the field, before being produced for his run in the straight.
When assessing Timeform weight adjusted ratings, he rates well clear and if able to run up to that level of form, he should prove very hard to beat.
Its ever easy with these imports as some acclimatise better than others, but judging by his two trial wins, he is in good order.
With even luck, he should prove very hard to hold out.
The Dan Meagher trained Wonderful Knight continued his good run of form last start and looms as a major threat from the gun draw.
A winner of six of his 54 starts, he is a bit of a journeyman, but has placed on a further 17 occasions.
Wonderful Knight has placed in 16 of 35 attempts over this trip and is sure to be prominent early.
Five of his six wins have come on the turf and if able to hold his form, he should be in this for a long way.
Stablemate Hero Star also appears capable following his third placing at this track over 1400m last start.
While not a prolific winner (2/25), he gets his chance down in the weights and sets up well back in trip.
CS Chin sticks aboard and he has to be included.
Of the rest class galloper Smart Vintage appears the next in line.
Good luck and happy punting.