Magic Light wins RSTC’s New Year Classic race
Published on: Saturday, January 06, 2024
Kassim (in yellow shirt), RSTC Chairman Datuk Peter Chin (left of jockey), Management Committee members and the winning team on stage.
Kota Kinabalu: The Royal Sabah Turf Club’s (RSTC) New Year Classic race on Monday (Jan 1) witnessed a dramatic see-saw battle between Magic Light and Beautiful Princess, with the former snatching victory by the narrowest of margin.
The day’s Guest-of-Honour, Datuk Abdul Kassim Razali, Chief Political Secretary to Sabah’s Chief Minister, presented prizes to the winning owner Wong Chee Min, trainer Wong Chee Hong and jockey Ridhwin.
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Meanwhile, with Singapore horse racing entering its final season, there will be added nostalgia and sentiments ringing around Kranji at each racing weekend.
This follows the announcement in June 2023 that the land occupied by Singapore Turf Club is to be returned to the state for development purpose.
The 2024 season starts today (Saturday) with an action-packed racing programme featuring some compulsory “must watch” races.
New Year Cup (Group 3) Race 11 features the clash of at least three titans in their own rights.
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Super Salute, last redeemed himself with a classic textbook win on December 17, 2023 is the form horse to beat.
With the vastly experienced jockey M Nunes on board again and the horse well prepared, it will take some effort from the rest of the field to revise the script.
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Up and coming Pacific Emperor did not disappoint in his Group 1 outing on November 11, 2023 despite finishing some distance away from the leaders. He was crowded out on race jump but did steady himself thereafter.
However, the long distance of 2000m and against a matured and elite field proved to be daunting. Back to his natural 1200m habitat, Pacific Emperor stands a good chance of landing the New Year Cup.
Akhtar, hardworking and reliable type, and prepared by Kranji’s champion trainer of season 2023, Jason Ong, is another horse to watch out.
Race 8 looks to be a tight race with numerous runners in competition. Lord’s Command and Bransom are likely to be at the forefront, followed by Asif, City Gold Star and Pacific Master.
RSTC’s representative, Win Win, should be considered a place chance, after proper rest and training. He did not race comfortably in his last two outings on November 11 and December 9, 2023.
RSTC’s Kinabalu Light is entered for Race 7 and if jump well and can keep pace with the front runners, he has the spirit to fight in the last 200 metres.
Local Tambalang Race 4 this Sunday is worthy of close attention as well. This race on 1100 metres sand track sees experienced campaigners Love Magic and Pengantin Baru likely to fight for top spot with newcomer Nimbus standing in their way. Rojodela Hero has tendency to lead from the front and should also be regarded.
Race goers can visit the Tambalang Racecourse, RSTC’s Off-Course centres in Tanjung Aru or Keningau to watch “live” Singapore and Perak races today and local, Selangor and Hong Kong races on Sunday. For race timings and details, visit https://www.royalsabahturfclub.com.my.
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