International race for Volkstok’n’barrell

Multiple Group One winner Volkstok’n’barrell is set to make his international debut in Singapore’s Kranji Mile.

The Group One race has international representation for the first time and has been moved from October to May 26.

Now trained in Singapore, Volkstok’n’barrell is one of 11 local runners who will compete for the S$1.5 million Kranji Mile prize money taking on three international horses, comprising two from Hong Kong – Southern Legend and Horse Of Fortune – and New Zealand’s Ocean Emperor.

A fourth, English contender Here Comes When, has been withdrawn by trainer Andrew Balding.

Volkstok’n’barrell moved to Singapore with New Zealand trainer Donna Logan who set up base there earlier in the year.

Logan has had one winner from four starters since making the move while Volkstok’n’barrell has yet to race, or barrier trial.

Volkstok’n’barrell won the 2015 Rosehill Guineas before running third to Mongolian Khan in the ATC Australian Derby.

He later finished 12th in the 2015 Caulfield Cup.

On return to New Zealand Volkstok’n’barrell was successful at Group One level over 1600m and twice at 2000m.

Expatriate Australian trainers to have runners include Lee Freedman with former Hong Kong galloper Circuit Land, who won an important lead-up race last month, the Chairman’s Trophy.

Former Melbourne-based Cliff Brown, who has been training in Singapore for 10 years, will be represented by Elite Excalibur while Shane Baertschiger has Well Done and Preditor lining up.

Infantry, who won the 2017 Kranji Mile, has been selected to run for Alwin Tan.