The SG$400,000 Gr1 Singapore Derby on Sunday will be the last in the club glorious history. Due to close later this year in October. Many believe that Lim's Saltoro is the one to beat with a few exceptions. 

Here are some views from the Singapore form experts. 

“I thought Bestseller ran exceptionally well in the Stewards’ Cup when he almost nailed Lim’s Saltoro,” said Ragavan. “I expect the extra 200m to make the difference this time. Besides these favorites, I think Lightning Strike can surprise. He’s handled the distance before, with a win and a third place, and jockey Hugh Bowman can make a big impact.”

Scott Bailey, who will be commentating for the English audience, also sees Lim’s Saltoro as the frontrunner and suggests a good value bet.

“Lim’s Saltoro keeps improving and shows the qualities of a good racehorse,” explained Bailey. “He won the Stewards’ Cup, and the 1800m shouldn’t be a problem. My outsider pick is Hole In One for a top-four finish. He finished strong in the Stewards’ Cup and should offer good odds.”

Ethan Mills also backs Lim’s Saltoro for a win on Sunday and believes the horse will continue to shine this season.

“Lim’s Saltoro is the best horse in the race,” said Mills. “Though he’s drawn wide, he should be able to manage it. My dark horse is Lightning Strike, who should peak for the Derby. With Hugh Bowman riding and a likely fast pace, Lightning Strike could exceed expectations.”

Kew Lee Teng, who will announce the race in Chinese, agrees with Mills on the likely winner and the main challenger.

“I’m sticking with Lim’s Saltoro,” said Teng. “Based on his performance last time, I think he can handle the 1800m. Lightning Strike, with his proven record at this distance, might surprise us.”

Both Raymond Yong and Collin Fan also expect a repeat of the Stewards’ Cup outcome.

“Lim’s Saltoro is the best four-year-old in Singapore,” said Yong. “He has a powerful finish and can win from off the pace. Bestseller is the main danger with his Group-level win over 1700m.”

Fan added, “Lim’s Saltoro can win all three four-year-old Group races and make history. Bestseller had a strong last run, and Duric’s riding style suits him well.”

As for my view, I’m going with the favorite in what will be the final Singapore Derby. Lim’s Saltoro's form is solid, having only been bested by the two-time Singapore Horse of the Year, Lim’s Kosciuszko. However, I'll be keeping an eye on Makin and jockey Manoel Nunes, who could leverage their advantageous barrier one position to great effect.

Image STC