NZ HARNESS NEWS
Champion driver Dexter Dunn probably summed up the thoughts of all rival New Zealand Cup reinsmen when analysing the record run by superstar pacer Lazarus in the Gr.2 $50,000 Kaikoura Cup.
“I’ve raced against Lazarus a few times now and it’s a bit like the Australian jockeys racing against Winx,” he said.
Dunn was happy with the performance of runner-up Titan Banner, who led and was brave in defeat, but Lazarus travelled well throughout in the parked position and was simply too good.
When driver and co-trainer Mark Purdon asked Lazarus for the extra effort at the top of the straight, the champ surged clear and it was game over.
Lazarus raced clear to win by two lengths, giving Purdon the perfect New Zealand Cup trial.
“I could have gone to the front and run a record but it probably worked out better as it did,” he said.
He will assess in coming days whether Lazarus will need another hit-out before November 14’s Gr.1 $800,000 New Zealand Cup and if he does, it will be in the Cup Trial at Addington next week.
As it was, Lazarus paced the 2400 metres from the standing start in 2.54.3, a mile-rate of 1.56.8, home in 54secs and 26.8secs around the uncambered South Bay track.
Purdon confirmed all of he and Natalie Rasmussen’s runners currently nominated will start in the Cup in 15 days’ time.
Lazarus, an entire by Bettor’s Delight, is now the winner of 30 races from 34 starts for over $2.25 million in stakes for owners Phil and Glenys Kennard, Trevor Casey and Kevin Riseley.
Casey said he thinks those at Kaikoura witnessed one of the best horses New Zealand harness racing has ever seen.
“He does everything so easily.”
Titan Banner held second while northern visitor No Doctor Needed continued his fine spring with a good finish for third placing.
Approved By Dean Baring www.harnessbred.com
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