Infantry (NZ) Too Strong in Singapore Derby

New Zealand-breds have won the S$1.15 million Emirates Singapore Derby (2000m) three times in the last four years following an outstanding win at Kranji on Sunday by Infantry (NZ) (Tavistock), who cost just $7,000 at the National Weanling, Broodmare & Mixed Bloodstock Sale at Karaka.

Kiwi-bred superstar Spalato (NZ) (Elusive City) won the race in 2014, while Ready to Run Sale graduate Well Done (NZ) (Falkirk) took it out last year.

Infantry, who had won the Merlion Trophy (1200m) and Moonbeam Vase (1800m) earlier this year, showed his stamina and versatility when he stepped up to 2000 metres and added the Singapore Derby.

Ridden by Manoel Nunes for trainer Alwin Tan, Infantry sat in fifth place before sprinting to the lead at the 300-metre mark. He quickly put himself out of his rivals’ reach and raced to victory by a length.

“This is the biggest race I’ve ever won. I can’t find words to describe how I’m feeling now,” said Tan.

 “All I can say is that I’m very happy and also for the Thai owners who came here to support the horse.

 “This horse has such a big heart, he always does his best and throughout his prep I was satisfied with his work. Like I’ve said before, I gave him a lot of endurance work, more than the two other horses (Nova Strike who ran third and Absolute Miracle who ran eighth), and it’s obviously paid off.”

A full-brother to the stakes-placed stayer Night Nurse (NZ) (Tavistock), Infantry was bred by Cambridge Stud’s Sir Patrick and Lady Hogan. He was offered by Cambridge Stud at the 2013 National Weanling, Broodmare & Mixed Bloodstock Sale, where he was bought by Ms A Rutten for $7,000.

Infantry is owned by the Kajorn Petch Racing No. 2 Stable. He has now had 20 starts for eight wins, eight placings and more than S$1.3 million in prize-money.