As the curtain falls on Kranji Racecourse after its final meeting on October 5, 2024, Singapore’s 182-year racing tradition comes to a poignant end. The racing community reflects on the unforgettable moments and champions that defined Kranji’s storied history. For over two decades, Kranji was not just a track—it was a stage where greatness unfolded, with remarkable horses capturing the imagination of fans and their triumphs forever etched in Singapore racing’s memory.
Rocket Man is widely regarded as the greatest sprinter ever to race at Kranji. His lightning-fast speed and extraordinary consistency allowed him to capture the Group 1 Lion City Cup four times, as well as the Group 1 KrisFlyer International Sprint. He also triumphed on the international stage, winning the prestigious Group 1 Dubai Golden Shaheen in 2011. His runner-up finish in the Group 1 Hong Kong Sprint further demonstrated his ability to compete against the world’s elite sprinters.
Ouzo, the only locally trained horse to win the Group 1 Singapore Airlines International Cup, made history with a thrilling victory in 2000. Renowned for his exceptional stamina and composure under pressure, he captured the hearts of fans. Ouzo’s iconic win not only showcased his talent but also highlighted the potential of local horses on the global racing stage.
Jolie’s Shinju swept the Four-Year-Old series, delighting fans with her impressive performances. Her achievements included victories in the prestigious 4YO Challenge series, reflecting her exceptional talent and adaptability. Jolie’s Shinju’s ability to excel in competitive fields established her as a prominent figure in Kranji’s racing landscape.
Lim’s Kosciuszko has quickly become a top name in Singapore racing, with wins in the prestigious Group 1 Kranji Mile twice (2023, 2024) and the 2022 Singapore Derby. Notably, he carried top weight in the 2023 Gold Cup and still triumphed, demonstrating his class and resilience across distances from 1200m to 2000m.
Spalato, known for his tactical speed, became a fan favourite during his career. He secured the G1 Singapore Derby with an unbeaten record, showcasing remarkable talent and the ability to perform under pressure. His thrilling victories left a lasting impression on the Kranji racing scene, earning him respect among both fans and fellow competitors.
Ninetyfive Emperor, a fan favourite in the early 2000s, was known for his powerful performances in middle-distance and sprint races. His standout moment came in 2005 when he won the Group 1 Lion City Cup, showcasing his versatility and determination to overcome tough fields, making him one of Singapore’s most respected sprinters.
Better Than Ever is celebrated for his impressive long winning streak, which solidified his status as a household name in Singapore racing. His consistency and ability to thrive across various distances made him a standout performer and one of Kranji’s finest.
War Affair gained fame for his versatility and explosive finishing kick, securing multiple Group 1 victories throughout his career. Excelling in both sprint and middle-distance races, he showcased remarkable adaptability on the track. His standout performances, including wins in the Singapore Guineas and the Raffles Cup, endeared him to racing enthusiasts.
Horses like Super Easy, also celebrated for his remarkable winning streak, and Debt Collector, renowned for his explosive turn of foot that often left rivals in his wake, further enriched Kranji’s legacy. El Padrino, who won the inaugural Asia Challenge Cup in Korea in 2014, added to the track’s storied history with his impressive performances. Their legacies will continue to inspire long after the final race is run.
