Even during Sydney’s quieter racing months, talent continues to emerge. Bjorn Baker is optimistic that rising star Puntin can make his mark when he contests the Captivant @ Kia Ora Handicap (1400m) at Rosehill on Saturday.

Puntin, a gelding by Super Seth, boasts an impressive record with three victories and two runner-up finishes from just five outings. He narrowly missed first-up at Canterbury earlier this month, running second over 1250m.

His initial campaign began with a dominant maiden win at Nowra and culminated in a brave second behind stablemate Point And Shoot over 1600m at Randwick.

“He took all before him in his first preparation from winning a maiden at Nowra to winning in town and then running second to Point And Shoot, which is obviously good form,” Hilton said.

“His first-up run was fantastic over an unsuitable distance and steps up to 1400 on Saturday. He is a lovely horse.”

The stable has high expectations for Puntin, with hopes that his trajectory continues upward as the spring looms.

“What he showed us first preparation in terms of natural improvement and progression, it should see him step up to a nice class,” Hilton added.

Thunderlips, another Baker runner, will look to continue his strong run in the Schweppes Handicap (1500m), having been in top form on wet tracks.

“He will have to bring his wet form to dry, but we’re confident he couldn’t be going any better,” Hilton said.

“He is one of the most improved horses in our stable.

“We had a huge opinion of him as a two-year-old. We ran him in stakes races and he is slowly getting back there.”

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