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The Stephen Gray trained Raise No Doubt returned a new career peak on Sunday and was one of the standout performances over the weekend in Singapore.
Having caught the eye in both starts to begin this preparation the son of Not A Single Doubt proceeded to take that next step when too strong in the ninth event.
Ridden by Vlad Duric, the five-year-old was ridden patiently settled towards the rear.The Desmond Koh trained Southern Boss ensured a very strong tempo out in front (23.97 first 400m), a key factor which enabled Raise No Doubt to produce his best form.
Raise No DoubtUnder siege over the concluding stages Raise No Doubt really dug in deep and was simply too good late.
Only half a length separated the first four across the line, though the form locks in well and shapes as a good form race moving forward.Spanish Bay, Flak Jacket and Lim's Rally are all clearly capable types and are horses also worth following.
Raise No Doubt's victory also helps to somewhat confirm Spalato's performance in the Merlion Trophy with the form behind Kiwi Karma proving rock solid.Having joined Gray's stable in July last year, Raise No Doubt has continued to race in great order placing in six of his seven attempts, including three wins.
Since joining Gray's care Raise No Doubt has improved nine pounds and now the question remains - can he keep raising the bar?Following Sunday's success Gray indicated a clash with stablemate Emperor Max could be on the cards in the Group 3 Kranji Sprint [1200m].
“We entered him in a couple of handicap races before but they were cancelled. The Kranji Sprint will suit as it is a handicap race,” Gray said.“To be honest, he is six months away from taking on the best, but he will have no weight on his back and he’s in great form.
“Max will be the topweight and he will be at the other end. If I can’t win with Max, maybe I can win with this one.While no question Raise No Doubt will have to raise the bar again if he is to be successful, however he continues to race well and is a must for your blackbook.
On Friday night the Cliff Brown trained Poseidon notched up the hat-trick when too good on-speed in the seventh event.A winner of just two of his first 12 starts, Poseidon had always been a galloper who had displayed good ability though the winner's stall had often eluded him.
In 15 starts he has only missed the money twice and has clearly gone to a new level this time in.Admittedly a shade disappointing first up he has since won his last three straight and has improved 14 pounds.
Although only a narrow victor on Friday night, he was rising significantly in grade and continued his upward ratings spiral.Only tried beyond 1400m once in his career, Poseidon gives the impression he could be even better over further with Brown hinting they could now target the Singapore Four-Year-Old series .
The form around the likes of Dragon Fury, A La Victory and Kam's Comet is quite strong moving forward and Poseidon is definitely one that could pay to keep safe.