This time last year, Lim’s Kosciuszko was the talk of the town as the red-hot $6 favorite in the $1 million Group 1 Kranji Mile (1600m), putting trainer Daniel Meagher under significant pressure.

The Singapore Horse of the Year had a rare slip-up in the 2022 Kranji Mile, finishing 10th behind stablemate Lim’s Lightning. Meagher was determined to see Lim’s Kosciuszko redeem himself.

On that day, although Meagher had other entries, including a Class 3 race win with Saturno Spring (1800m), the highlight was Lim’s Kosciuszko clinching the 2023 Kranji Mile title.

Fast forward a year, and ‘Kosi’ is set to defend his title, joined by a formidable lineup that would be the centerpiece of any other race day.

Lim’s Bighorn is likely the favorite in the $150,000 Group 2 Singapore Guineas (1600m), and Lim’s Saltoro is a strong contender in the Kranji Stakes A race (1200m).

Meagher also fields Tiger Roar in the Kranji Mile, Lim’s Smythe in the Singapore Guineas, Lim’s Bestbreaker in the Kranji Stakes A race, and six other runners, aiming for multiple victories on Singapore’s premier racing day while managing the considerable expectations.

“There’s more pressure this time,” Meagher admitted on Tuesday.

“Last year, we focused on Lim’s Kosciuszko in the Kranji Mile, eager to win. Now, with three major races and several top horses, it’s a lot of pressure but also thrilling.

“It’s a busy week leading up to these races, but I’m content knowing the horses are in good shape and ready to perform on Saturday.”

Despite the buzz around Lim’s Bighorn and Lim’s Saltoro, Lim’s Kosciuszko remains the star attraction at Kranji.

“It’s his grand final,” Meagher said of the six-year-old son of Kermadec.

“While he has other big races ahead, starting with the Lion City Cup (1200m on 28 July), the Kranji Mile has been his primary goal for the first half of the year.

“After some quarantine issues post-Hong Kong, which ruled out Dubai (World Cup meeting on 30 March), his preparatory races – the Kranji Stakes A (1200m on 23 March) and the Group 2 EW Barker Trophy (1400m on 21 April) – went exceptionally well.

“His win in the EW Barker Trophy, considering the time (1 min 21.03 secs), was one of his best. He carried 59kgs in a handicap race and now has 57kgs at set weights on Saturday, making him tough to beat.

“Jockey Marc Lerner’s light workout during his trial (third to Ghalib on 9 May) was ideal. Lim’s Kosciuszko is in great shape, and barring any late issues, he’s primed for the race.”

The three-year-old star Lim’s Bighorn, unbeaten in four starts this year, including the Group 2 Singapore Three-Year-Old Classic (1400m) on 27 April, is also in top form.

“No faults,” said Meagher of the son of Better Than Ready.

“We skipped the 3YO Sprint (1200m) after he seemed a bit lackluster in March. His pedigree and attitude suggested the 1400m and mile would suit him better, and he proved it in the Classic.

“Marc’s excellent ride made the difference, and the mile should suit his forward-running style.

“Lim’s Smythe (by Saxon Warrior) will also improve after a rough run in the Classic. Chad Schofield rides him, and he should finish strong.

“And if there’s rain, don’t count out Tiger Roar (by Wandjina) in the Kranji Mile with Simon Kok.”

Although the Kranji Stakes A race isn’t a Group race, it promises excitement with Lim’s Saltoro being a top contender after narrowly losing to Lim’s Kosciuszko in the EW Barker Trophy.

“He’s an exciting horse,” Meagher said of the four-year-old son of Shamexpress.

“Returning to 1200m isn’t an issue, and he’s well-placed with 52.5kgs. Bruno Queiroz will ride him, and this race sets him up for the upcoming four-year-old Group races starting with the Silver Bowl.”

The Group 3 Silver Bowl (1400m) is set for 9 June, followed by the Group 2 Steward’s Cup (1600m) on 30 June, and the Group 1 Singapore Derby (1800m) on 21 July.

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