A good clash is expected as some quality performers step out in the 1100m Metro A contest (Race 6) at SLTC on Sunday. Last start winners CHEVAL RAPIDE (3) and CHINESE TEA (4) may be vying for favoritism in what should be a keenly contested affair. CHEVAL RAPIDE (3) has found a new lease of life since joining the Simon Dunderdale yard posting 4 wins from 9 starts in Malaysia and has been freshened since his dominant display in a 1400m Metro A race last month. The nine year old trialled impressively here on Tuesday as rookie apprentice, Tuan Ammar will once again use his 4kg claim to advantage. CHINESE TEA (4) was also impressive in breaking through over 1100m for trainer Frank Maynard and the lightly raced seven year old has the potential to become a group horse in the making. LONELY BOY (1) is a moderate beginner with a sharp turn of speed and was placed twice in group one company last season. The seven year old finished runner up to CHINESE TEA (4) last start and is capable of turning the tables on best form. SKYDANCE ECLIPSE (2) was a 1400m winner two starts back and drops in distance while WAR DRAGON (5) rises slightly in grade but is always competitive at this level without winning.
Race 6 Selections: 3, 4, 1, 2
GOLDEN CHAMP (2), WISHUPONASTAR (9) and HIGH WATER (5) ran the trifecta in a 1200m Class 3 race here a fortnight ago and the trio are set for a rematch in Race 5, this time to be contested over the 1100m journey.
GOLDEN CHAMP (2) has taken all before him since joining the Selangor stables of Tiang Kim Choi by winning at all three local appearances this year. The six year old Brazilian bred is racing in career best form and looks hard to beat again despite the slight rise in weights. WISHUPONASTAR (9), which arrived as a maiden in late 2021, has adapted well to the local circuit winning 5 from 14 in Malaysia and is very reliant on his early pace. He will need to utilize that pace if he has any chance from the outside gate. HIGH WATER (5) should be at peak form following four runs this preparation and a win would not surprise. HADEER (3) has been competitive without threatening in three local starts but is a worthy trifecta prospect while FA FA STAR (1) will provide the speed influence from the good draw and will be prominent for a long way.
Race 5 Selections: 2, 9, 5, 3
