Mark Keeps the Faith

The Singapore Turf Club reports:

The Mark Walker-trained Sebrose will be facing his biggest test in one of the most prestigious local races, the $1.15 million Group 1 Emirates Singapore Derby (2000m) on Sunday.

Sebrose has never run over such a long trip nor has he faced Group 1 company before but Walker has faith in his galloper as he believes he has the pedigree to complete the long distance but just needs a little more polishing to measure up to this class.

“Distance shouldn't be a problem to him as his mother Bramble Rose won the New Zealand Oaks which was over 2400m. So it's in his genes to stay,” said the Kiwi handler.

“I have thought of entering him in the Derby all along but he's a horse that matures a little more slowly and since he has improved and matured a lot in his past runs, we thought why not?

“His last few runs were good but this time it will be the toughest company he has ever faced with one or two horses like War Affair (bought by David Ellis) and Quechua that seems hard to beat on paper. So it's a pretty big step-up for him.”

Sebrose winning at one of his last starts.

To prepare for the Derby campaign, Walker has been stepping the son of Sebring up in distance at his past three runs, a mile to 1800m, which the four-year-old was victorious over at his second-last start in a Kranji Stakes C race.

He also gave him two gallops recently with his frequent partner and Derby partner Manoel Nunes aboard. Like Walker, the Brazilian jockey was more worried about the strong contenders and does not think that the long trip would be much of a concern.

“It's his first time running over 2000m but I don't think we will have a problem as he ran well in the two 1800m races and he has the signs of a stayer,” said the reigning Singapore champion jockey.

“It's a very tough field on Sunday with War Affair and Quechua being the main dangers but I have respect for all my opponents.

“It's his first time in Group company and I will try my best, hopefully things will go well. But who knows, maybe he will do well as he's in tip-top condition and Mark has done a great job with him.”

Besides being happy with the work he has put in Sebrose, Walker was also relieved with the low barrier draw (3).

“He has got a decent barrier and Nunes who knows him quite well is in the saddle,” he said.

“He's doing very well and he's 100% fit. He just has to step up to be competitive and I'm sure he will give his all.”