Ocean Emperor is the first overseas contender for next Saturday’s $1.5 million Invitational Group 1 Kranji Mile (1600m) to have landed in Singapore.

The New Zealand representative touched down from Auckland on Thursday afternoon at 3.40pm, accompanied by his travelling lad slash track rider, apprentice jockey Tui Miles. A little more than two hours later, the Gary Hennessy-trained dual Group 2 winner was safely tucked away in his box at the International Stables at Kranji.

Singapore Turf Club’s veterinary surgeon Dr Brenda Low reported that the six-year-old entire by Zabeel was a dream horse to deal with, be it on board, upon disembarkation or during the float journey from Changi Airport to his temporary home at Kranji.

Groom Tui Miles leads Ocean Emperor out of his pallet at the airport.

A bit of limbering around for Ocean Emperor before boarding the Kranji-bound float.

Ocean Emperor gives an aptly-regal pose at Kranji (photo by Dr Brenda Low).

“No complaint at all. He is a very sensible horse, he came off the plane quickly and was loaded onto the float just as easily,” said Dr Low.

“He looks all right. We took the usual nasal swab and collected his urine, he was cooperative, no problem.

“The travelling groom said he ate and drank well during the flight.”

Two more horses from abroad are expected on Saturday morning at 7.30am, Hong Kong’s Southern Legend who is trained by Caspar Fownes and Horse Of Fortune who is trained byTony Millard. They will take on 11 local runners in the Kranji Mile on May 26.