The first email arrived around 6.30 this morning and there’s been quite a few missives and phone calls since.

Lyle Plumb was ‘Johnny-on-the-spot’ though and reckons the victory of Bel Esprit 3YO, Aranda, at Singapore’s Kranji course over 1200m last night was “awesome”.

And, writing for the Singapore Turf Club, expat scribe, Craig Brennan was also mightily impressed: “Aranda, having just his second start, was throttled down by jockey Robbie Fradd to score by 5.75 lengths.

“The 3YO was one of the first to jump and Fradd had no hesitation in rolling forward on Aranda. As the field turned for home, Fradd released the brakes and opened up a commanding break. The winning margin could have been greater but for Fradd applying a stranglehold over the final 50m.

“Trainer Michael Freedman reported after the race that Fradd has a healthy opinion of Aranda and would like to stick with the galloper.

“’Robbie said he hadn’t bottomed out and there will be a lot more improvement to come from him,’ said Freedman. ‘We’ll see how he comes out of this race, but I may be tempted to aim him at the Singapore Guineas next month.’

“The Group Three $200,000 Singapore Guineas over 1600m will be run on 27 February.

“Freedman said Aranda was underdone, education wise, when he stepped out for his debut on 21 December.

“’The race experience did him the world of good and he’s going to continue to improve,’ said Freedman. ‘The Marine Stable (owners) are a good bunch of local guys who have been with me since I came up here. They are fairly new to racing but they are looking at being a major player here.’”