3 minute read
The Leticia Dragon trained Strong N Powerful had his colours lowered last start and now steps up in grade, but still appears well placed at Kranji on Sunday night.
Due to contest the sixth event, Strong N Powerful steps up to Class 3 company, but gets every chance down in the weights.
Successful in bringing up the hat-trick two back, he certainly wasn't disgraced last start and it is a big tick with Van Der Merwe going back aboard (won 2/2).
Only lightly raced, he continues to raise the bar and should fly dropping down to 53kg.
Never easy taking on the older horses, but when assessing Timeform weight adjusted ratings he appears well placed and looks to get every chance.
His performance against the clock last start was very good, it was a fast finishing mile and he was strong through the line.
When adjusting for sectionals, he looks to have their measure, just needs to hold his form.
From the awkward draw do expect Van Der Merwe to press forward in a race lacking obvious speed.
If able to get a cheap run on pace, he should prove hard to get past in the straight.
Topweight Destroyer Eclipse drops back to more suitable company and has to be kept safe second up.
Clearly no match for Aramaayo first up, he still wasn't disgraced and has since been back to the trials, finishing a close up fifth.
Leading rider Vlad Duric legs back aboard (won 4/7) and he appears the only other likely on-pace runner.
Given he's drawn on the inside of Strong N Powerful, do expect him to lead, with Duric likely to try and get an easy time in front.
He has placed in 4/7 attempts over this trip and you have to respect his class in this grade.
The Stephen Gray trained Wecando gets in well at the weights after Kok's claim and has to be respected despite the awkward draw.
A game fourth last start behind Pax Animi, he is yet to be tested over the mile, but gives the impression it should suit and he has to be included.
Of the rest, the consistent Global Kid appears the next in line.
Good luck and happy punting.