Jockey Vlad Duric will take up a contract in Singapore following the autumn carnival

Duric said he has struggled both mentally and physically in Melbourne's winter over the last couple of seasons and will take a four month contract.

“It's something I've had on my mind for a couple of years,” Duric told Sport 927. ”I've got a little bit heavy and a little bit stale over winter so I thought it was a good opportunity to get away and try somewhere different.”

Duric said he expects to start in Singapore at the beginning of April, which will tie in well with the program of Master O'Reilly in Dubai, who he rides there on March 28 in the Group 1 US$ 5 million Dubai Sheema Classic (2400m).

The four month contract gives Duric a taste of Singapore but allows him to return to Melbourne for the beginning of the 2009 Spring carnival.

Meanwhile. Duric is expecting Master O'Reilly to improve sharply at his next start in the Australian Cup following two runs from a spell.

After finishing last first-up behind Maldivian in the Orr Stakes he ran an improved race when fourth behind Theseo in the St George Stakes.

But getting up to his winning distance range and back to the bigger track at Flemington, the real Master O'Reilly is expected to step up in Saturday week's feature assignment.

“I thought he was good the other day. I rode him again this morning and he seems to have really gone on again.

“I'm looking forward to getting back to Flemington and 2000m.”