Tony Cruz is confident Ima Single Man can stamp Hong Kong Classic Mile credentials with another strong performance in the Class 2 Chek Keng Handicap (1600m) at Sha Tin on Sunday (9 January) in a contest pivotal to the hopes of several Four-Year-Old Classic Series contenders.
Stepping to 1600m for the first time after wins at 1200m and 1400m (twice), Ima Single Man will attempt to enhance a remarkably consistent record since joining the Cruz stable from Perth trainer Chris Gangemi, who guided the Gingerbread Man gelding to two victories from as many starts, including the 2020 G2 Karrakatta Plate (1200m) at Ascot Racecourse, during a brief Australian career.
Cruz is optimistic Ima Single Man (125lb) can lay down a positive marker for the HK$12 million Hong Kong Classic Mile (1600m) on 30 January.
“He’s very good, he’s in excellent condition. I’m very happy with him. He pulled up very good after his last-start win,” Cruz said. “After this race, I’m going for the Classic Mile with him, so Sunday is a big test for him to go from 1400 metres to 1600 metres, but I believe he can get the distance.”