3 minute read
Promising galloper Power Lion appears poised to return to the winner's stall, when set to contest the seventh event at Singapore this evening.
Stepping out for just his eighth start, the son of Danroad returned an encouraging performance first up, when finishing third behind Accomplished.
Ridden quietly from the awkward draw, Power Lion loomed up to challenge on straightening, only to just peak on his run late.Sticking on well to be beaten just over two lengths, Power Lion should derive plenty of benefit from the performance.
More notably, Power Lion made his return 12kg heavier than his last start victory, further emphasising he is open to good improvement.A victor of four of his seven starts, Power Lion has continued to raise the bar — his latest effort returning a performance equal to his peak.
As Power Lion returned in such good order, he is likely to record a new career peak this evening.Using Timeform weight adjusted ratings, Power Lion holds a slight edge over his rivals, with the Shane Baertschiger trained Blue Swede his nearest danger.
During his first preparation, Power Lion improved 21 pounds from his debut victory and on average improved four pounds between each start.If able to follow a similar progression this time in, he appears very hard to hold out.
The drop back in trip is a slight concern, however Power Lion has had four weeks between runs and trust Alvin Tan to have him freshened right up.Leading rider Danny Beasley sticks aboard and has won four of seven attempts aboard the gelding and is currently striking at 19% for the Tan stable.
Himalaya Dragon and Mexborough Boy look to control the tempo with Beasley expected to settle Power Lion just off the speed from the middle draw.Over 1400m, Power Lion did prove a bit keen, so the stronger tempo of the 1200m should see him settle better in running.
Power Lion is unbeaten at his only prior attempt on the polytrack and should prove very hard to hold out.Capable galloper Blue Swede hit the line well first up and is another who should show good improvement racing second up.
Although unable to really make an impression in the straight, his performance held plenty of merit, after getting a long way back behind Exceed Express.Hitting the line well, Blue Swede notably returned to the races 28kg heavier than his previous start in the Group 1 Singapore Guineas.
Like Power Lion, he will no doubt strip fitter and is clearly capable when up to his best.From the middle draw, Blue Swede should settle fairly close to Power Lion, as regular rider John Powell won't want to concede too big a start on straightening.
Although clearly no match for War Affair during the 3YO series, his form prior rates well for this event and he is expected to make his presence felt.The Sonny Yeoh trained Himalaya Dragon appears the next in line, after she beat home Blue Swede last start.
Sticking on well behind Exceed Express the daughter of Hidden Dragon is another who is only lightly raced and must be kept safe, as she looks to get all the favours on-speed.Perfect Challenger is seven runs between wins, however he possesses form good enough to win this event and must be included.
Good luck and happy punting.