PINHEIRO THE HAT-TRICK HERO

Brazilian young gun fires on all cylinders on his return from successful Dubai assignment

-  Michael Lee

Popular Brazilian jockey Bernardo Pinheiro picked up where he left off with a riding treble at his first day back at Kranji on April 13.

The Dubai-based jockey could not have hoped for a better homecoming to the country that has fast become his second port of call in the last three years.

With Singapore racing shutting down after Oct 5, the 27-year-old will, however, have to find another place to migrate to during the offseason (April to September) in the United Arab Emirates.

In the meantime, Pinheiro, who finished a meritorious third on the 2023-24 Dubai log with 34 wins, including one apiece at Group 2 and Group 3 level, would rather make hay while the sun shines.

The wins on Last Samurai and War Warrior for Kuah Cheng Tee and Super Baby for Jerome Tan from a full book of 10 rides were greeted with wild cheers and selfies from adoring fans.

While it will not eclipse his last Kranji meeting on Oct 14, when he was moved to tears by his Singapore Group 1 breakthrough with Hongkong Great in the Queen Elizabeth II Cup (1,800m), he was still grateful for the dream comeback.

"Big thanks to the trainers and owners for their support. It's great to ride a full card at my first day back," said Pinheiro.