3 minute read
The Shane Baertschiger trained Aramaayo landed his first Group 1 success last start and now appears poised to go back to back at Kranji on Sunday.
Due to contest the Group 1 Singapore Derby [1800m], he aims to collect the fourth win at the top level for trainer Shane Baertschiger.
Formerly trained by James Cummings, Aramaayo [Old Name: Aramayo] displayed good talent in his 14 starts prior to coming to Singapore, despite only notching up the two career wins.
He was Group 1 placed in the Spring Champion Stakes [2000m] and left Australian shores rated 115 by Timeform.
While only able to run up to that level once, he had proven time and time again that he was a 100+ horse.
Since arriving in Singapore Aramaayo had placed in five of six attempts prior to winning the Group 1 Kranji Mile.
Having caught the eye first up over 1100m, Aramaayo clearly appreciated the step up in trip and took full advantage of a 10/10 ride from Ruan Maia.
Proving too strong late, Aramaayo returned a Timeform rating of 107, rated just below that of past winners Infantry (109) and Debt Collector (112).
Given he was only second up, Aramaayo looks to have more to come and should appreciate the step up to 1800m.
Drawn favourably, he should receive a charmed run and with even luck he is the one to beat.
Certainly respect the Michael Clements trained Top Knight.
He finished second behind Aramaayo last start and certainly didn't shirk the task when making up a stack of ground.
Top Knight is yet to miss the money third up and has always given the impression he would be even better beyond a mile.
Champion rider Vlad Duric links back aboard (placed 8/8), though some query how far back he gets from the draw.
If he is likely to be spotting Aramaayo a decent start which is never easy.
To this point they have met four times with the ledger reading two apiece, suspect whoever comes out on top will be crowned the winner of the Derby.
Stablemate Siam Blue Vanda beat both Top Knight and Aramaayo prior to a break and while yet to feature in two runs back, he cannot be discounted.
A winner of seven of 17, he has clearly been set for this and should be very strong late.
Of the rest the Lee Freedman trained Minister appears the next in line.
Unbeaten this time in (2/2), he needs to take a big step, but is in the right stable to do so and has to be included.
Good luck and happy punting.