Stephen Baster has made a solid start to his six month riding stint in Singapore with his second winning double in a week.
Baster’s two winners on Sunday were the Steven Burridge-trained Awakened and Bulldozer for trainer Mok Zhan Lun to go with his two winners last Tuesday.
Coincidentally, Baster was renewing his acquaintance with Bulldozer who was trained in Victoria and sent to Singapore after winning a barrier trial.
“He used to be with trainer David Brideoake, and David rang me one day to ride him in a barrier trial at Tatura,” Baster told the Singapore Turf Club website.
“As he was fairly new, David didn’t want an apprentice to ride him in a trial. I remember he was just as green but he showed a lot more speed then.
“He jumped and led and won the trial and he was then sent here. Little did I know I would ride him to his maiden win here one day!
“It was by pure chance that Mok asked me to ride him. Mok told me to just teach him how to race today, but to my surprise he ran on very well for a very nice win.”
Baster said he was enjoying Singapore and looking forward to more opportunities.
“It’s nice to kick home a few winners for a variety of trainers. It’s all good and very encouraging,” he said.
“This is only my fourth meeting here and it’s been fantastic so far. I love Singapore and I hope things keep going this way.”
Baster’s winners have been for four different trainers with his first two for Michael Freedman (White Coffee) and Bruce Marsh (Saddlers Creek).
Burridge was full of praise for Baster and said he would do well in Singapore.
“I’ve known Steve from the time he rode for Mick Kent,” Burridge said.
“He’s a very competent rider and I have no doubt he’ll be an asset for Singapore.”
AAP TURF
