STC
Trainer Stephen Gray’s charmed run since his Lion City Cup triumph on Saturday continued with a newcomer in the shape of King’s Speech obliging at his first run in the S$85,000 Restricted Maiden race over 1200m on Friday night.
Gray said he had not really expected the Darci Brahma three-year-old to get on the board at his launch, and he was more the sort who would improve with more mileage.
“I normally give my horses three barrier trials before they get their first run, but I told Vlad (Duric) as there was nothing on grass, I might as well give him his first run in this race,” he
said.
“I still didn’t think he would win first-up even if he’s done well at his trials at home.
“At the 300m, I thought he would run second or third, but he impressed me with that win. There is still so much improvement in him.
“It’s great for Paul. That’s what racing is all about, Garry Carvell (bloodstock agent) and myself bought this horse as a yearling for NZ$80,000 and he’s won about $45,000 at his first race.”
Duric said King’s Speech was the “ultimate professional” despite lacking race experience.
“Steve said to me prior to the race that the horse impressed him even if he was still green and cheeky,” said the Singapore champion jockey.
“I thought he would need half a dozen starts before he improves on his mannerisms, but to the horse’s credit, he was the ultimate professional. He did draw a good barrier (four) which is important and we had a beautiful run throughout.
“The pace was steady at one stage, and I was worried a little, but he showed good quality to win the race.” -STC