3 minute read
The Ricardo Le Grange trained Churchill wasn't beaten far in his Singapore debut and appears well placed to go one better in the fifth event at Kranji on Friday night.
Only a recent addition to the Le Grange stable, Churchill was formerly based in Australia [Old Name: Front Sight] under the care of Kris Lees.
A sole winner from six starts, Churchill displayed good ability and left Australian shores rated 92 by Timeform.
At his best over 1400m, he is sure to appreciate the step up in trip and appears well placed on best form.
A half brother to both Group 1 winner Romantic Touch and Group 3 winner Burning Passion, he is bred to be pretty smart and looks set for a handy career in Singapore.
Sticking on bravely when beaten narrowly first up, his performance held plenty of merit and he can improve sharply on Friday night.
Given 19 days between runs, Churchill has been back to the trials and looked good when scoring under Duric.
Made to find the line late, he scored by a length and did it in decent enough time (1:01.08) carrying 69kg.
The wide draw is a bit of a hindrance, however expect Duric to press forward and take luck out of the equation.
When raced in Australia he rarely settled worse than third and over 1400m, his tactical speed early is a big advantage.
Does line up against a few in-form types, however if he brings his 'A' game, he should take plenty of beating.
The Mark Walker trained Axel continued his good run of form last start and has to be included in the main hopes.
In 11 starts on the turf he has placed in eight and he's never missed the money over 1400m.
He's drawn to get a lovely run for Woodworth (placed 7/8) and looms as a major threat.
The Shane Baertschiger trained Chocante hasn't won in 474 days, but hasn't been far off the mark and has to be respected from the middle draw.
While yet to place over 1400m previously, he finished fast over 1200m last start and should be aided by the step up in trip, he should run well.
Of the rest, last start winner Gentlemen Agreement appears the next in line.
Good luck and happy punting.