Trainer David Kok is rueing Speedy Phoenix’s bad luck at the barriers again this Sunday.
Following his slashing win second-up, the American-bred colt was beaten by the outermost alley at his next start in a Class 4 race over 1200m.
Despite the horror gate (13), the Interactif three-year-old roan jumped smartly enough to take up a handy spot outside leader Marea Negro before launching at the 300m.
Sent out as the $18 favourite, Kok’s gallant colt looked to be travelling strongly for Vlad Duric, but started to buckle under pressure at the 200m. That was when Effortless (John Powell) came swamping him on the outside to go and land the money.
Speedy Phoenix stuck on well but even lost second place to Moritz Eclipse.
Kok said the colt raced by the same owner as his Singapore Derby star Well Done, Jason Goh, has pulled up well since but has unfortunately been handed a bad number again at the barriers – uncannily, again Lucky No 13.
“The horse is well and has come on since his last three starts (he ran fourth on debut),” said the Singaporean handler who himself has had a lean year, having not saddled a winner since Speedy Phoenix’s last win on June 2, his third winner all-up as the Singapore season gets into the second half.
“He galloped very well yesterday and ran a very nice barrier trial (second to Sattar) last Thursday, but I don’t know how he will handle the wide gate again.
“Vlad Duric rode him at his last start, but he’s this time riding Splinter, who I think will be the main danger. We’ve booked (Manoel) Nunes for the ride.
“I think if he can get in with some cover this time, he should run well. He’s a very nice horse and I think he has a good future.
“Jason deserves to have another good horse after Speedy Dragon and Well Done. He’s been very patient with this one and I hope he gets a bit of luck on Sunday.”
