KING ARTHUR (I Am Invincible-Pentasia) produced another outstanding performance to take out the Class 2 1200 metre Turf event at Singapore’s Kranji Racecourse Saturday 18th June, making it seven career wins for him since 2nd Oct 2021 and in front of a big crew of Fortuna Racing supporters from NZ, Aus, Singapore and Malaysia. Up in grade since his last win and meeting a strong field on the Turf surface, with all six of his previous wins being on the Polytrack, punters were not sure of his prospects and he started at 8/1 odds. Drawn nicely and with Stable apprentice F Yusoff, claiming 3kgs, King Arthur was away well and got into a nice spot one back on the rail in a race being run at a genuine tempo. Hooked out to make his run on turning for home, he made the lead quickly and was too strong to the line, winning by 3/4 length from a fast finishing SPIRIT OF BIG BANG with his Fortuna Stablemate, HADEER finishing in 3rd place

Click HERE to see race replay

Trainer Donna Logan, recording her 26th Training success in 2022 and her 2nd on the evening, was a very happy handler,  “That was an outstanding performance, I know there was doubt in the minds of some about his Turf ability, but look these horses – Turf or Poly– I think the longer they are here and they are always racing on the Poly, they get accustomed to it,” she said on King Arthur’s breakthrough on the turf “but he has raced on the turf before and this horse gave me no indication he wouldn’t like the turf. And what a great result for the Fortuna NZ Racing Stable – they been a huge supporter of Singapore racing since 2010. I’m hugely indebted to Fortuna for being part of our stable. They’re a great team of owners and quite a few of them are on course to witness King Arthur’s win.”

Donna continued to give praise for the winning rider. “It was a great ride by young Yusoff – the claim was a major key but he rode him a treat. An eleven-out-of-ten ride!”

“King Arthur” – Singapore Win #7 – 18  June 2022

Fortuna Racing’s John Galvin, visiting from New Zeland and on course hosting a team of around 20 Stable supporters, was an excited man post race “Well that was pretty special wasn’t it – thanks to Covid I have not been able to visit Singapore for a long time – and for Arthur to deliver a result like that for us was very special. Big congratulations to Donna Logan, she is a meticulous and dedicated Trainer, who is doing a great job filling the big shoes of Mark Walker. As for young Yusoff, he has really hit his straps as a rider, he has gained in confidence as we have entrusted him with these sorts of rides and he is delivering. And kudos to King Arthur – so far in 2022, he has had eight starts for five wins, a 2nd, a 3rd and a 4th – and he’s not done with yet”

KING ARTHUR’s connections post race

John Galvin, Yusoff and Syndicate Member Graham Stewart (Wainuiomata New Zealand)

KING ARTHUR was originally raced in Sydney, Australia as Tintagel by clients of the Bjorn Baker Stable, but after not meeting their expectations, they decided to put him on the market and he was purchased by John Galvin on the advice of former Singapore Trainer, Mark Walker, out of the October 2020 Inglis Digital Sale for A$25,000. He is raced by the Fortuna King Arthur Syndicate, an ownership group of 31 individuals from New Zealand, Australia and Malaysia. He has now accumulated S$276,000 with seven wins, five 2nds and two thirds  from 18 starts in Singapore,

Headline News;

Fortuna to field six runners in four races at the Singapore meeting 18^th June, headlined by the 3yo DECEPTION (I Am Invincible) who tackles the Group 3 Singapore 3yo Sprint , – John will be there hosting around 15 Fortuna clients from Singapore, Malaysia. NZ and Australia

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Fortuna has seven runners this week – one in Australia  –  six in Singapore

Geelong – Friday 17^th June

NO ENVY contests the BM 64 2400m event – Race 6 @ 5.50pm NZT. Slightly disappointing last start at Cranbourne following a dominant winning display at Geelong in April, he was probably ridden too far back – a one paced genuine staying type, he will be ridden closer to the speed this time in the hands of Craig Newitt  – Has drawn wide and will need to get away well for him to be on the speed – if he does, then he could be a good each way chance in this

Singapore – Saturday 18^th June

ELLIOT NESS races in the Class 5 1200 Polytrack event – Race 1 @ 4pm NZT. A solid 4^th placing when resuming after 4 months away from racing due to a foot injury, he drops to Class 5 here, has taken big improvement from his resuming run and gets a 3kg allowance courtesy of Stable apprentice F Yusoff – a Singapore track record holder over 1100m on this surface, he looks to be a strong prospect to win this race

Here is what the Singapore Turf Club tipsters say about this race;

KING ARTHUR runs in the Class 2 1200 Turf event – Race 10 @ 8.30pm NZT. The winner of 6 races and placed 2^nd or 3^rd a further 7 times out of his 17 races in Singapore, he has made rapid progress and was a dominant trial winner 7^th June – up in Grade, he meets a strong field here, but carries a featherweight with Yusoff’s 3kg claim. All of his wins have been on the Poly and gets Turf here – Needs to handle rise in class, but if so, represents a very good each way chance here

Here is what the Singapore Turf Club tipsters say about this race;

HADEER also runs in the Class 2 1200 Turf – Race 10 @ 8.30pm NZT. Racing with in and out form this 5 career win galloper has not greeted the judge since September 2021 and is racing out of his grade here, but has a featherweight to carry with Hakim aboard – may be stretched to win this, but always gives a sight – place chance, any rain would boost his chances

DECEPTION contests the feature race of the day, the Group 3 Singapore 3yo Sprint over 1200m on the Turf – Race 11 @ 9pm NZT, he has been the model of consistency, his first 6 races in Singapore yielded 3 2nds and 3 thirds, all in Restricted Maiden Grade before finally winning in that grade 14^th May. He then ran in the Class 4 1100 4^th June and seeking a rails run, was blocked for room and did look to be a certainty beaten. Meets a good field of 3yo’s here and will need to be right on his game to feature, but form hard to fault – good top 3 chance

ENTERTAINER  races in the Class 3 1100m Poly –  Race 12 @ 9.30pm NZT. The winner of seven races in 2021, all at this trip and surface, he has struggled to find his best form at Class 2 and Class 1 level – now back to Class 3, freshened since his last run and with the 3kg claimer F Yusoff aboard, he gets his chance here and if he runs to his best form, he can feature in the first three home

BRUTUS also contests the Class 3 1100 Poly – Race 12 @ 9.30pm NZT.– the winner of 4 of his previous 7 starts, he was average last start when stepping up to Class 3 level – however seems to have taken good benefit from that run – classy at best but does to lift to perform in this grade – if he does, then he can feature here

Here is what the Singapore Turf Club tipsters say about this race;

Fortuna Track work – Matamata

Tuesday 14^th June

No timed Fortuna trackwork today

Thursday 16th June

No timed Fortuna trackwork today

Fortuna Track work – Singapore

Saturday 11^th June

Elliot Ness (Yusoff) – 1000/600 38; Brutus (Aslam) – 1000/600 36

Tuesday 14^th June

Brutus (Aiman) – 800/600 41; Deception (Aiman) – 1000/600 42; Hadeer (Aiman) – 800/600 43; Entertainer (Yusoff) – 800/600 40; King Arthur (Yusoff) – 800/600 39;

Other News

Guest Selector – Des Coppins

Trentham abandoned last week, so no betting opportunity – here is what Des thinks this week

Des runs  his very popular phone tipping line (you can access this by calling 0900 45459 – note this incurs a charge of $2.99 per minute) – this service has been active for over 25 years and covers all NZ gallops from 8am each race day).

Headline News;

Stakes, Stakes, Stakes – this past week has seen prizemoney increases from NSW, Queensland, Victoria and yes, even “Godzone” has joined the party – Read more below

Hidden Promise retires on a high note – Read More below

Royal Ascot next week – five magnificent days of racing for the Sport of “Queens” – Read More below

John to head to Singapore 16^th June to attend the 18^th June meeting – Read More below
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Fortuna has one runner this week – in Singapore

Singapore – Saturday 11^th June

OLYMPIA contests the Class 5 1000m event – Race 9 @ 8pm NZT. Bold 2^nd off a wide draw last start – has another tricky draw this time and will need a touch of luck – Hakim to ride – form hard to fault, loves the trip – very good top 3 chance

Here is what the Singapore Turf Club tipsters say about this race;

1st Pick: OLYMPIA (6)
Wide without cover throughout last start getting zero luck in transit. Racing well at the moment and looks a good chance to bounce back.
2nd Pick: LIM’S SHOT (12)
No weight on its back this weekend after being narrowly denied last start. Yet to break through over 1000m in its career but has placed quite a few times.
3rd Pick: MAGNIFIQUE (3)
Looks the speed influence and the one they will be chasing. Crowded at the turn last start and didn’t handle it well. Hopefully gets clear running this weekend in its third run back in class 5.
4th Pick: SHANGHAI STAR (1)
Has to lug a big weight but was good to the line last start behind Silent Is Gold in a cracking novice. Respect.

Fortuna Track work – Matamata

Tuesday 7^th June

No timed Fortuna trackwork today

Thursday 9th June

No timed Fortuna trackwork today

Fortuna Track work – Singapore

Saturday 4^th June

Entertainer (Yusoff) – 800/600 40;

Tuesday 7^th June

Our Final Offer (Jamil) – C, 400 31.5; Olympia (Aiman) – 800/600 42; Elliot Ness (Aiman) – 1000/600 42;; Brutus (Aslam) – 1000/600 37.5;

Other News

Stakes, Stakes, Stakes – this past week has seen prizemoney increases from NSW, Queensland, Victoria and yes, even “Godzone” has joined the party

NSW has announced that the Golden Eagle, run in October will got to A$10m and Saturday City minimum Stakes will lift to A$150k and midweek City minimums to A$55k

Click HERE to read details on NSW Stakes increases

Big news out of Queensland with a complete overhaul of betting tax structures – featuring a rise in Point of Consumption Tax to be paid by all bookmakers and 80% of the taxation raised to be returned to the Racing sector – up from 35% at the moment – in addition Tabcorp will make a one off A$150m payment to Racing Queensland with A$50m of that to go into infrastructure

Click HERE to read details on Queensland Racing structure revamp

Not to be outdone Racing Victoria announced significant increases matching Saturday and midweek Metro racing prizemoney with NSW, a revamped Champions Stakes Day on the last day of the Melbourne Cup carnival with three races (Darley, Mackinnon and Cantala Stakes all to be increased to A$3m each

Click HERE to read details on Victorian Stakes increases

Meanwhile here in NZ, NZTR made its own announcements, on the face of it, small bikkies compared to our Australian cousins but significant all the same with Group One races going to $300k minimum, Group Two races to $140k minimum and Group Three races to $100k minimum and overall minimum across the calendar increases to $14k (up from $12k). In addition NZTR has committed to a $10m infrastructure fund over a 5 year period to be spent on racetrack infrastructure upgrades

NZ Stakes to increase – Click HERE to read more

Hidden Promise retires on a high note – Yes, having his 87^th start and running at a trip short of his best, he was 2^nd to last with 300m to go, but then put in his trademark finishing burst and got up for a 3^rd placing returning $7.80 on the tote – we could not have been prouder of him – very few retire on their own terms, but “Bart” did just that – he is now to join a riding school in Malaysia where his gentle nature should be a great attribute

Royal Ascot next week – five magnificent days of racing for the Sport of “Queens” – with now 70 years on the British throne, Racing (in Britain at least) has not seen a King At Ascot for a long time – with Her Majesty’s well documented mobility problems, it will be interesting to see if she can make it along – my money is on “yes she will”

Click HERE to read this history from Thoroughbred Racing Commentary of our Queen and her lifelong involvement in Thoroughbred Racing

John to head to Singapore 16^th June to attend the 18^th June meeting – four years since I was last able to attend a Singapore meeting – Covid of course didn’t help matters, but with the Fortuna Racing 3yo DECEPTION (I am Invincible – Friday Hussy) participating in the Group Three 3yo Sprint, it was an opportune time for me to get back there, attend the race day and inspect the Fortuna Team of 12 horses – I am going to be joined on the race day by Fortuna clients from Singapore, Malaysia, NZ and Australia – remarkably, four other gallopers from the Fortuna Team, ENTERTAINER, KING ARTHUR, BRUTUS and ELLIOT NESS are all set to race that day as well

Lester Piggot – I have received a lot of feedback from clients re Lester’s passing – out of that feedback, Brad Johnson, ex UK, recalls going with his father to see Lester ride at Newmarket and Kempton Park and Barry Lindsay was at Te Rapa in 1972 to see Lester win the International Stakes on the mighty Sailing Home – interestingly enough I have the photograph below of the jockeys in that race on that day – you need to be of a certain vintage to appreciate it, but what a team of riders and as for the field, there are some famous names there aren’t there? Notable also the size of the crowd in the Stand!!!

Guest Selector – Des Coppins

Not much luck last week with just a 3^rd placing (Dame Vera) from my multi tip – we will turn the page.

It will be a testing track at Trentham on Saturday as the venue plays host to Awapuni. In saying that, the surface should be loose with any amount of rain that has fallen around the city over the last week. I have two horses I rate highly.

I like Deerfield and Chase marked down for the multi and  this week we were able to snare $7.50 on the pair who start in race  3 and race 5 respectively.

Deerfield impressed in the birdcage viewing area at Trentham last time and while he was game in running third he over-raced and kept running on to heels of another runner which saw him change stride. It’s very hard to maintain a perfect rhythm when one gets on heels especially when track conditions are tough. I’m sure that run and a subsequent trial to go with a couple of jump outs over the last 5 or 6 weeks should have Deerfield spot on for Saturday. He’s a sound galloper with 11 wins over sprint journeys and get this, he has lumped 62 or 63kgs in 4 of those wins, three times in wet ground.

Chase is another who is adept in heavy ground. He races well at Trentham and the win in the r74 over 1600m on this track a fortnight ago was downright effortless! He’s had 3 runs on a heavy track at Trentham for 2 wins and a second. The other day he carried 60kgs and drops to 54kgs this weekend.
Fingers crossed it’s back to the winner’s circle on Saturday.

Good punting!
Footnote: Our Melbourne Cup tour has 80 (fully booked) and any future enquiries will be placed on a waiting list. Thanks to those from Team Fortuna who may have booked!

Des runs  his very popular phone tipping line (you can access this by calling 0900 45459 – note this incurs a charge of $2.99 per minute) – this service has been active for over 25 years and covers all NZ gallops from 8am each race day).

Re the Melbourne Cup trip, if you have booked to go with Des, please drop me a note so that I can get an overview of those of you who are attending

Headline News;

HIDDEN PROMISE brings a six season racing career to an end this Saturday 4^th June in Singapore – Read More below

Vale Lester Piggot – yes, one of the greatest jockeys to ever grace the Turf has gone – aged 86 – Read More below

Fortuna has four runners this week, all in Singapore

Singapore – Saturday 4^th June

HIDDEN PROMISE heads to the track for his last career start before retiring – he is in the Class 4 1200m event – Race 4 at 5.30pm NZT and will be ridden by F Yusoff claiming 3kgs. This is not his best trip but has run well at times over this distance when fresh – can he make it a “fairy tale” ending – probably cannot win but could be a cheeky place chance if the pace is strong

HADEER is in the Class 3 1200 Turf – Race 10 at 8.30pm – Jerlyn Seow to ride claiming 3kgs – rarely runs a bad race this fellow – Jerlyn knows him well but has a very difficult draw to contend with – will need luck but if he gets it, he rates as a good each way chance

Here is what the Singapore Turf Club tipsters say about this race;

1st Pick: TIGER ROAR (1)
Trials have been nice leading up to first up return this weekend. This looks a nice starting point and should command plenty of respect in the market.
2nd Pick: HADEER (2)
Solid 1200m turf record across both tracks having won four times. Coming off a solid trial between runs in preparation for first start in over a month.
3rd Pick: MOONGATE STAR (5)
Despite being diagnosed with heat stress post-race last start, this son of Atlante ran well into fourth, beaten 2.3 lengths by Lucky Jinsha.
4th Pick: PATTAYA (9)
Last start placing behind Sabah Star looks a strong enough form line to be competitive here with the right run, a must include in the numbers.

KERMAJACK makes his Singapore debut in the Class 4 1400m Turf – race 11 at 9pm – Hakim to ride claiming 1kg – a big strong galloper who won in Australia over 1600m and ran 2^nd over 2100m – bred to get a trip, he will need every inch of this 1400m trip – should be running home strongly, but may need this outing

DECEPTION contests the Class 4 1100m Poly – Race 12 at 9.30pm – an impressive last start winner in Restricted Maiden Grade, he is a quality galloper – has been freshened after his last start win and is being aimed at the Singapore 3yo Sprint 18^th June with this race being a lead in – Jerlyn Seow rides, claiming 3kgs – hard to fault his form but recent racing has been on the Turf, did run 3^rd this trip and surface on debut 8^thJanuary – can feature here

Here is what the Singapore Turf Club tipsters say about this race;

1st Pick: GOLD TEN SIXTY-ONE (1)
Commanding winner over the same track and distance last start. Lead from gate to wire and I doubt the plan will change at all for this weekend. Looks the clear leader in the race.
2nd Pick: MONTANA FLASH (7)
Stepping out for Singapore debut. Half-brother to Lim’s Craft so has the right blood to succeed here in this jurisdiction. This upcoming run will give us a good guide on where he is at.
3rd Pick: DECEPTION (5)
Drops back to the 1100m and onto the poly which I don’t think is a plus. However, he was a dominant winner last start and could figure in the placings.
4th Pick: KISS YOUR SONG (2)
Quick back up for this for this four-time track and distance winner who is on the quick back up. Inside gate once again should assist its chances, keep safe.

Fortuna Track work – Matamata

Tuesday 31^st  May

No timed Fortuna trackwork today

Thursday 2^nd June

No timed Fortuna trackwork today

Fortuna Track work – Singapore

Saturday 28th  May

Hidden Promise (Jamil) – 800/600 37; Trident (Jamil) with Rocky (Yusoff) – 800/600 38; King Arthur (Aiman) – 1000/600 39; Entertainer (Yusoff) – 1000/600 39;; Our Final Offer (Aiman) C, 400

Tuesday 31^st May

Deception (Jerlyn) – 800/600 39.5; Kermajack (Jerlyn) – 800/600 39.5; Montana Flash (Jamil) with Hadeer (Jerlyn) – 1000/600 37; Our Final Offer (Aiman) – 400 32; 34.5; Entertainer (Yusoff) – 800/600 38.5;

Other News

HIDDEN PROMISE brings a six season racing career to an end this Saturday 4^th June in Singapore – the nine-year-old veteran had his first race day start in Singapore in November 2016 as a four year old – acquired by David Ellis in November 2014 at the Karaka Ready To Run sale for $65,000 on behalf of Fortuna Racing, his early promise was certainly well “hidden” because he did not show a lot at any of his trials in New Zealand or in Singapore – however being by Postponed out of the Zabeel mare Promissory, we knew that time would be his friend – sure enough and at his 5^th career start in February 2017, he won a Class 5 1600m event in Singapore – he was no Champion but collected 7 wins, 6 2nds, 11 3rds and S$266,000 in prizemoney for his Ownership Group from 82 career starts. 1600m was his favourite trip winning 6 times at that distance and while most of his racing was in Class 4 or 5 Grade he did win once in Class 3.

Given the stable name “Bart”, he was as honest as the day is long and was often described by Mark Walker as “the soundest horse” in Singapore. His last win was in July 2021 and his recent runs have indicated that he was starting to feel his age, so the decision was made to give hm one more race on 4th June and retire him while still sound and fit – on 9^th June, he will cross the causeway into Malaysia where a retirement home has been found for him at a riding school. To indicate his longevity, notable that he was Fortuna’s 49^th Syndicate and now we are up to Syndicate #129. His Ownership group are in the main in New Zealand with one Member from the UK.

Go well Bart, you have been a great servant and given your Owners a lot of pleasure over the years

Vale Lester Piggot – Yes the great man has passed away in Switzerland aged 86 after a short illness. As a boy growing up and as a teenager and young adult obsessed with racing, I well remember Piggott winning 9 Epsom Derbies – incredibly he won his 1st Derby in 1954 as an 18 year old – mind you he did win his first race when he was aged 12!!!  I also recall when that great NZ Champion Balmerino went to contest the Arc De Triomphe in 1976, he was beaten into 2^nd Place by Piggott on Alleged. He also has another NZ connection riding at Te Rapa on International Day in 1972 when he partnered the mighty mare, Sailing Home, to win the International Stakes (this race is now known as the Herbie Dyke Stakes) – he also rode Arbre Chene to win the New Zealand Stakes at Ellerslie in 1980.

Lester Piggott in his youth

Piggott was a man of few words and was famous for his quips – also famous for his ruthlessness on the track – stories abound, but my favourite comes from the great Kieran Fallon, who recalled, that when he was an 18 year old “wet behind the ears” rider, Piggott sidled up to him in the mounting yard before a race and said “well, son, what are you going to do here”  Fallon, honoured to be spoken to by the great man, said “well Sir, I am going to lead” – Fallon records that Piggott tracked him all the way throughout the race and got up in the last few strides to win by a head. He also records that that was a great learning curve for him.

There is far too much to be told about Lester Piggott in the space we have here but there is a wonderful summary of his racing career in the Racing Post article HERE

And what was, in the opinion of the great man himself, his greatest ever victory – he says it was on Royal Academy in the 1990 Breeders Cup Mile – some background here – he had retired from riding in 1985, then served 12 months in jail for tax evasion and had his OBE stripped from him – in 1990, aged 54, he made a riding comeback and 12 days after resuming, he won the Breeders Cup Mile at Belmont Park in the US – ClickHERE to watch the replay and a riding genius (look for green silks, white cap). Asked for a quote after the race he simply said “you never forget” and walked away

Guest Selector – Des Coppins

It was an inexplicable performance by Hot Shockolate at Trentham on Saturday and we came back to earth with a sudden thump. It seems so many climbed on board with the odds dropping from the opening quote of $13 to a closing price around $6.50. She is capable of doing better and maybe a looser track will aid her next time but for the time being we will take it on the chin and move on to this weekend.

I like two horses at Waverley ( transferred from Wanganui)  on Saturday and the choice is whether we back them as individuals or play the multi every possible way, i.e win, win; or, win, place; or  place win or place place.  I’ll be going every which way!

The two horses are Dame Vera in race two and Zoey Satin in race 8.The former has been well looked after by Robbie Patterson and her run to finish third last time was the six year old mare’s 6th start. She loves the mud and she attacks the line. While she didn’t have the quickest overall sectionals last time she was very quick over the last 200m and with a win and a second in only her two starts over Saturday’s distance of 1400m she looks perfectly placed to lodge the ultimate challenge.
Her $4.50 early odds look about right on! Zoey Satin is playing $5.50. That’s also a suitable price. We were on her last time and she was the quickest home over the last 400 and 200 at Rotorua on a slow track. She will be more suited to a wetter track and she should get it on Saturday. The extra distance will also suit and she’s had one start on the Waverley track for a comfortable win back in July. Remember, she had three wins in a row on heavy tracks each time last year.

Good punting!

Des runs  his very popular phone tipping line (you can access this by calling 0900 45459 – note this incurs a charge of $2.99 per minute) – this service has been active for over 25 years and covers all NZ gallops from 8am each race day).

Headline News;

Fortuna’s Singapore Trainer Donna Logan is on a roll with a treble two weeks ago and a double last week – this has propelled her into 2^nd place on the Singapore Trainer’s Premiership for 2022

On a more sombre note, Donna’s partner, Peter Woods, lost his Mother 21^st May – fortunately Peter and Donna had been able to spend time with her during their recent NZ Vacation and have returned to NZ for her funeral – I am sure all of the “Fortuna Family” will join with me in offering our commiserations and sympathies to Peter and Donna

Fortuna has three runners this week, one in Australia, two in Singapore with the feature being SOPRANO SUPREME tackling the Group 3 Premiers Cup at Eagle Farm on Saturday – Jessica and John will be attending along with a few Members of her Syndicate

Saturday 28^th  May  –  Australia

SOPRANO SUPREME contests the Group 3 Premiers Cup 2400m at Eagle Farm – race 2 at 11.43 am. A stout 2^nd placing at her Australian debut in the Gold Coast Cup 3 weeks ago gave an indication that this lovely up and coming staying Mare can be competitive here. Kerrin McEvoy sticks – she has shown good improvement since her last race – never easy in Australia, but a bit to like here and she represents a good each way chance

“Soprano Supreme” – Win #3 Rotorua 9th April 2022

Saturday 28^th May – Singapore

OLYMPIA races in the Class 5 1100m Poly – Race 4 at 4.30pm NZT and will be ridden by Hakim – an impressive last start winner two weeks ago over 1000m, he gets another crack in the same grade – never runs a bad race and is a good each way chance here.

Here is what the Singapore Turf Club tipsters say about this race;

1st Pick: MAGNIFIQUE (2)
Has had five runs track and distance and has never run out of the top four placings. Last start led them up in first run at class 5 and was run down beaten just over a length. Big chance.
2nd Pick: WAWASAN (5)
Wide without cover last start and had no luck going down by less than a length. Prolific non-winner but always runs a good race and finds an easier field here.
3rd Pick: OLYMPIA (6)
Solid win last start but does meet tougher opposition. Still must respect the winning form here as a lot of other runners haven’t seen the winning post in quite a while.
4th Pick: FIGHTING HERO (10)
Beaten a nose last start in maiden company. Yet to win in nine starts now but last start was promising enough to include in the exotics.

ELLIOT NESS resumes in the Class 4 1000m Poly – Race 11 at 9pm NZT and will be ridden by Hakim. This highly talented galloper, who broke the track record in Kranji when winning a Restricted Maiden race in April 2021, has not had an easy time since – a persistent virus in the Spring hampered his performances and then a foot injury early in 2022 has required a period of rehab. Now fully recovered, he has had three trials to prepared for his resumption – may need this one, but has featherweight to carry – watch!!!

Fortuna Track work – Matamata

Tuesday 24^th May
No Timed Fortuna Trackwork today

Thursday 26^th May
No Timed Fortuna Trackwork today

Fortuna Track work – Singapore

Saturday 21^st  May

Hadeer (Jerlyn) – 800/600 38; Brutus (Aiman) – 800/600 35.3; Deception (Aiman) – 800/600 37; Hidden Promise (Yusoff) – 1000/600 38; King Arthur (Yusoff) – 800/600 37; Olympia (Aslam) – 1000/600 37.2;

Tuesday 24th May

Deception (Aiman) with Brutus (Aslam) – 1000/600 37; King Arthur (Aiman) – 800/600 38; Trident (Jamil) with Rocky (Aslam) – 1000/600 37; Elliot Ness (Ronnie) – 800/600 38; Kermajack (Jerlyn) 1000/600 37; Olympia (Aiman) – 800/

Other News

Guest Selector – Des Coppins

Des did it again with his multi selections at Te Rapa both coming in at odds of up to 8-1 – the “silver fox” is on fire!!!

Des reports as follows;

We struck gold again last week with the multi but is was more gold dust than nuggets with punters chipping in big time. However, as the saying goes, small fish are sweet and while we didn’t collect the $8.40 on offer on Friday because of a couple of notable scratchings the $4.20 on the fixed odds with the 4.5 length win by the first leg, Swiss Kitty and the 1.5 length follow up by Wewillrock, gave us little cause for concern.

DECEPTION, the three year old gelding by I Am Invincible out of Friday Hussy was too dominant for his rivals in the Restricted Maiden 1200m Turf at Singapore’s Kranji race course on 14th May 202o. Having his 7th start in Singapore since Jan 1st, DECEPTION had run either 2nd or 3rd in each of his previous six starts, all in Restricted Maiden Grade, clearly demonstrating ability, but just not quite able to nail his first win. A short freshen up by his Trainer, Donna Logan, after his last start at 1600m 26th March, and bought back to 1200m proved just the ticket and aided by a clever ride by Singapore’s leading rider from 2021, K Hakim, victory was achieved.

Drawn nicely in Barrier 4 and with speedy types inside, the race plan was to have DECEPTION sit in behind the speed and then present for a run at the top of the straight. The plan was executed perfectly by Hakim, traveling well in the run, peeling out as they turned for home and then mounting a compelling run down the Kranji straight, going to the line clear by 1.5 lengths in the good time of 1.10.39

Click HERE to see the replay.

Trainer Donna Logan, who prepared three winners on the day taking her 2022 season total to 18 wins, was in awe of her charge post race “That was just a super effort, we have always known that this boy has ability, but he just kept running in to one or two better on previous race days. But today, he ran the perfect race and was just too big, too strong and was beautifully ridden by Hakim. John Galvin’s Fortuna Stable is on fire, they have had 9 wins for me so far in 2022 and well done to them, they are wonderful supporters of Singapore Racing.”

Deception – wins Restricted Maiden Singapore 14 May 2022

John Galvin, watching from his Hamilton home, was overjoyed with the outcome  “He has really been knocking on the door this horse, he is a lovely type, big and strong and the freshen up and back in trip really worked the oracle today. Hakim, who has had a difficult start to 2022, due to Covid, rode him an absolute treat. Well done to Donna and her team, they are really starting to hit their straps.”

DECEPTION was originally acquired as a yearling by the China Horse Club/Newgate partnership, who fancied him as a Stallion prospect due to his very strong pedigree, for A$750,000 at the 2020 Magic Million Yearling Sale and given to Peter and Paul Snowden to train in Sydney. However after two trials and showing signs of real coltyness, his ownership group decided to sell him unreserved, as they do not race geldings, preferring to focus on Stallion prospects

Fortuna acquired DECEPTION at the April 2021 Inglis Online Sale for just A$65,000, he was  gelded within a couple of days of purchase and shipped to Singapore. He has now accumulated S$105,000 in Stakes money

DECEPTION is raced by the Fortua Deception Syndicate, an ownership group of 37 individuals from New Zealand, Australia and Malaysia

From a family that Te Akau has great affinity with, Malborough Bay (2 g Darci Brahma – Spin ‘N Grin) debuted with victory in the $12,000 Matamata Veterinary Services Maiden 2YO 1200 metres on 13 May at Matamata.

Malborough Bay had produced a well timed finish to win a trial 19 April at Taupo, and overcame an awkward draw (9) on raceday at Matamata to frank his trials performance.

Ridden by Lisa Allpress, Malborough Bay was posted three wide in third, drew to a narrow advantage 200m out and exuded plenty of tenacity to score by a long neck.

“I was really happy with him,” Allpress said. “He jumped relatively well and even though I was three deep with no cover I just felt he was more comfortable in that part of the track. He cornered really well, came into it nicely and was strong to the line, so it was just a really nice effort.”

“It was a tough effort because he had to race three wide,” said trainer Mark Walker, after saddling the 15^thindividual two-year-old winner for the stable this season. “I trained Spin ‘N Grin in her racing career – she was a really good gilly who won thr Eight Carat Classic at Ellerslie – she achived a lot in her short racing career and has been a prolific boodmare.”

On Soft5 footing, Malborough Bay ran 1200 metres in 1:11.6, last 600m in 36.1, and returned $8.10 & $2.70 on NZ TAB tote.

Click HERE to see the race replay

MARLBOROUGH BAY – wins on debut – Matamata 13th May 2022

Fortuna Racing also had the pleasure of racing Group 1 placed three-quarter sister Burgundy Belle (Burgundy), winner of four races, who is now in foal to exciting young sire Extreme Choice (Not A Single Doubt), while Spin ‘N Grin has now left six individual winners of 18 races, including Group 1 and Group 3 placed Éclair Lightning (Darci Brahma).

Fortuna Director John Galvin was on course with a very large contingent of the Ownership Group “That was a great outcome for this horse” he said, “Jamie Richards and now Mark Walker as Trainer have a lot of time for him and have labelled him a potential NZ 2000 Guineas type. Fortuna has had a lot of success with the progeny of Darci Brahma over the years and we have also had a great relationship with the progeny of Spin ‘N Grin,” Galvin said. “Burgundy Belle had a wonderful career and we also enjoyed success in Singapore with two of her sons, Major Tom and Jack’s Secret. Lovely ride by Lisa, she took a risk in keeping him 3 wide, but correctly assessed the state of the tracxk in making that decision.”

Bred by Karyn Fenton-Ellis and Glenn & Cathie Holmes Malborough Bay was acquired by John Galvin  in a private sale for $80,000. He is raced by the Fortuna Marlborough Bay Syndicate, an ownership group consisting of 55 individuals.

Marlborugh Bay was strapped by Reece Trumper

Natural ability shone through when Hayate (3 f Maurice – Vamoose)) produced a winning debut in the $12,000 NZB Insurance Pearl Series Maiden Fillies & Mares 1200 metres (eligible $11,500 bonus) on 13 May at Matamata.

Hayate had indicated her readiness at the trials when quickening through late for third over 950 metres on 26 April at Cambridge (poly-track), and benefitted from a positive ride by premiership leading Te Akau apprentice Joe Kamaruddin. Showing good gate speed to sit in second place outer at the 800m, Hayate quickened to an advantage on straightening, kicking away by two lengths and kept giving to prevail by a short neck at the line

“I wanted to be one out and one back, but Plan B was outside the leader,” a beaming Joe Kamaruddin said after the finish. “She travelled well and finished really strong.”

On Soft5 footing, Hayate ran 1200 metres in 1:11.2, last 600m in 35.9, and paid $10.60 & $3.25 on TAB tote.

“It was a good ride by Joe and he took bad luck out of the equation,” said trainer Mark Walker. “She’s always been pretty shin sore, probably will be again tonight, and we were touch and go getting her here today, so she’ll go out for a spell with a win under her belt. She’ll be right with a bit more time and could stretch over longer distances.”

Click HERE to see race result and replay

HAYATE – wins on debut – Matamata 13th May 2022

Hayate is from the first crop 0f Arrowfield shuttle stallion  Maurice (Screen Hero), the 2015 Japanese Horse of the Year and both Champion Sprinter and Champion Miler, and now one of the hottest young sires in Japan.

Fortuna Director, John Galvin was on course along with a solid contingent from the ownership group  “Well done to David Ellis and Jamie Richards who picked this filly out for us at the 2020 Karaka Yearling Sale,” he said post race. “When we bought her, Maurice was a first season sire and now he’s more than hit his straps in Australia and Japan. It’s lovely to get the Pearl Series bonus on top of the prize money at an industry day race meeting. It was an excellent ride by Joe Kamaruddin to put her in a handy spot and she was good enough to stay on and win.

Raced by Fortuna Hayate Syndicate, an Ownership Group of  60 individuals, Hayate was acquired for $80,000 by Te Akau principal David Ellis on behalf of Fortuna Racing at the 2020 Karaka Book 1 Sale, from the draft of Mapperley Stud.

Hayate was strapped by Molly Whiteford.