Shafiq Rizuan scores aboard Nova Warrior
Malaysian rider Shafiq Rizuan was in the winner's circle for the first time since November 22, following a lengthy suspension, with Nova Warrior (NZ) (Bachelor Duke) successful at Kranji on Friday night.
"I know this horse well as I've won twice on him," Shafiq said. "I decided to go a bit quicker early because the others kept chasing him.
"When Eagle Storm came to the outside, I pulled my horse out at him so he would quicken again. He's again showed he had a big heart by fighting all the way to the line."
Winning trainer Alwin Tan was happy with Nova Warrior's return to winning ways though his better-fancied Rich Fortune's (NZ) (Keeper) fourth place left a bittersweet taste.
"The inside barrier suited him (Nova Warrior). He was able to enjoy a comfortable lead even though he led at a fast pace, and fought very bravely," said the Singaporean trainer.
"Rich Fortune was very unlucky as he couldn't get out. I'll have to see how he pulls up and then make a decision whether he will run in the first Leg of the 3YO series."
The Singapore Three-Year-Old Challenge kicks off with the Group 3 Dester Singapore Three-Year-Old Sprint (1200m) on March 27.
"I know this horse well as I've won twice on him," Shafiq said. "I decided to go a bit quicker early because the others kept chasing him.
"When Eagle Storm came to the outside, I pulled my horse out at him so he would quicken again. He's again showed he had a big heart by fighting all the way to the line."
Winning trainer Alwin Tan was happy with Nova Warrior's return to winning ways though his better-fancied Rich Fortune's (NZ) (Keeper) fourth place left a bittersweet taste.
"The inside barrier suited him (Nova Warrior). He was able to enjoy a comfortable lead even though he led at a fast pace, and fought very bravely," said the Singaporean trainer.
"Rich Fortune was very unlucky as he couldn't get out. I'll have to see how he pulls up and then make a decision whether he will run in the first Leg of the 3YO series."
The Singapore Three-Year-Old Challenge kicks off with the Group 3 Dester Singapore Three-Year-Old Sprint (1200m) on March 27.
