One of Malaysia’s best performed mares XENA (2) will start the popular pick when she makes her third appearance at the Ipoh circuit on Saturday in the 1200m Sweet Memories Stakes (Race 3). The 6yo was far from disgraced when she closed off from a rearward position to finish 5th in the 1200m Penang Island Cup on Christmas Day when produced first up. Jockey S Ruzaini was aboard the mare for her last victory back in August and the pair will combine for Saturday’s contest.
Local favorite, GRAND CROSS (1) makes his race track return since finishing unplaced in the 1200m Charity Cup last November. The 10yo has won 13 times on his home track and despite the big weight and outside draw, the gelding does perform better when produced fresh as senior jockey HS Gill returns to the saddle.
GOOD MAN (5) has only scored once in the country but gives the impression he will be competitive against this higher graded company as he comes off two placings in a row.
Despite the class rise, EXDREAM (11) looks a genuine chance on the minimum following his Penang victory last start while stable mate LIM’S DASHING (8) scored at big odds on Christmas day.
MOONGATE LIGHT (3) performed admirably against similar opposition last season and normally races well first up from a break.
Selections: 2 – 5 – 1 – 11
Another galloper which appears well weighted is the locally trained SUPER SIXTYONE (9), who steps out in the 1100m Auspicious Start Handicap (Race 4). The 7yo has built a handy record on his home track with 3 wins from 5 starts last year and was a Class 4 winner back in October.
ZHU CAPTAIN (3) failed to handle the wet track at his first Malaysia start when last of seven in Penang three weeks ago. The 5yo also suffered from a respiratory problem that day so may be worth another chance judging by his previous form in Singapore where he scored twice from four starts when known as Atilla.
BAKUTEH (10) and DESIRE SKY (11) have been descending down the ratings and both are poised to feature on the minimum weight while ELITE SAINT (6) will strip fitter from the short break.
Selections: 9 – 3 – 11 – 10
