There is every chance former top three-year-old Countofmontecristo will be making his racing comeback this Sunday.

The son of Echoes Of Heaven is currently the first standby starter in the $100,000 Open Benchmark 97 race over 1200m on Polytrack.

Trainer Michael Clements is hoping the five-time winner who tasted defeat only at his last start in the third Leg of the Singapore Three-Year-Old Challenge, will get a berth at the final declaration on Wednesday. He has also entered Italian Job, who is also weighted at 50kgs like Countofmontecristo.



Countofmontecristo (Glen Boss) may return this Sunday, picture Singapore Turf Club

“By hook or by crook, Countofmontecristo must run this Sunday,” said the Zimbabwean-born handler.

“It’s an ideal prep run for him going towards his main target, the Jumbo Jet Trophy.”

The Group 3 race over 1400m will be run on September 10.

Clements said the Joe Giovanni-owned gelding has fully benefitted from his three-month break after an intense three-year-old campaign.

“He had a nice break after the Three-Year-Old Challenge. He had a hard prep and he’s done really well,” he said.

“He trialled last Thursday (August 10). It was just maintenance work and he went okay (distant fifth to Royal Ruler).

“I am very happy with his condition, but he will need a first run, and that’s why I’m keen to see him get a run this Sunday.”

Regular partner Glen Boss stays on board if Countofmontecristo makes the cut in the BM97 race where he will meet more seasoned horses like Lincoln Road, Best Tothelign, Daniel and Nova Swiss, but who have not been running up to their best form of late.