This year’s $300,000 Group 1 Lion City Cup (1200m), the pinnacle sprint race on Singapore’s racing calendar, features a small but elite field of seven contenders. Here’s the preview from iRace:
No. 1 LIM’S KOSCIUSZKO: The reigning Horse of the Year has yet to face a challenger this year, with three starts culminating in a dominant 1.25-length victory in the Group 1 Kranji Mile last time out. He stands out as the one to beat.
No. 2 GOLDEN MONKEY: Last year’s 4YO series hero appears to have regained his form, scoring an easy win in a Kranji Stakes A race in his latest outing. The Tim Fitzsimmons-trained gelding boasts a blistering turn of foot, which could be a significant asset in this small field, especially given the likely sedate tempo.
No. 3 GHALIB: Currently in career-best form, Ghalib’s impressive record of three wins and two placings from his last five starts highlights his prowess. With his tactical speed, if he can secure a soft lead—likely this week—he should put in a strong performance.
No. 4 SKY EYE: This seven-year-old has completely lost his form, making it difficult to envision a win in this week’s Group 1 feature.
No. 5 PACIFIC VAMPIRE: The son of Impending possesses early speed, but the 1200m distance at this level raises concerns. Jockey Daniel Moor previously noted that a trip shorter than 1200m would be more ideal for him.
No. 6 GREATHAM BOY: Once considered a highly promising prospect after winning the Group 3 Golden Horseshoe as a two-year-old, Greatham Boy has struggled to finish in the Top 3 in the first two legs of the 3YO series this year. Nonetheless, his recent form suggests he might make an impact in his first Group 1 attempt, having won his last two starts under handicap conditions.
No. 7 ACE OF DIAMONDS: This son of Swiss Ace has proven himself as the best three-year-old this season, with victories in two of the three legs of the 3YO series, including the Group 2 Singapore Guineas. Although facing older horses at the highest level for the first time, his untapped potential puts him in a strong position to continue performing well.
