Racing: Select Gathering steps out in style

Select gathering drew attention to his chances in Sunday's Class 4 sprint over the flying 1,100m (Race 3) with a brisk gallop at Kranji yesterday morning.

With Englishman Alan Munro in the saddle, the five-year-old four-time winner was never off the bit when clocking 36.5sec for the 600m.

An experienced galloper - having faced the starter on 26 occasions - SELECT GATHERING looks to be in the type of condition where he can win another race.

That said, you have to go back to Nov 8, for the last time he trotted into the winner's circle to have his photo taken. But he has not been idle - even though his three runs since then have been bland, to say the least.

Seventh to Imacruiser. Tenth to Seligi and 11th to Astrostar isn't what his connections want to remember. That said, all were in Benchmark 67 events and his assignment on Sunday looks to be a tad easier.

The fact apprentice R Shafiq retains the mount - which translates into a 1kg claim - is another plus as Shafiq has won on him on three occasions last year.

Then there's that thing about the barrier. Select Gathering has drawn Marble One which, in a sprint over the 1,100m, must be seen as an advantage - especially for the runner who likes to race near the front.

Come to think of it, there's plenty to like about the Mark Walker-trained gelding and while punters will be able to make a case for at least four other runners in the race - namely Gato Negro, Stiletto, Cash Advance and Not Simple - we reckon, on yesterday's workout, Select Gathering does look like he will make a more than decent bet.

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