By Melbourne Cup hero Shocking out of a Tavistock mare, OTI’s New Zealand-bred 3-year-old Azazel looks every inch a top class stayer in the making.
It’s not often that a spring campaign unfolds exactly as planned, but so far things have fallen into place. Bred to stay and purchased with the Derby in mind, Azazel has now secured his spot in the Gr.1 VRC Derby (2500m) after a determined win in the Listed Geelong Classic.
OTI’s Terry Henderson says any rain to hit Flemington before Saturday will only enhance Azazel’s chances of causing an upset in the VRC Derby.
Henderson told The Verdict podcast he was buoyant about the young stayer’s hopes this weekend.
“If we get some rain on Friday, that will bring him right into the race.
“The Godolphin horse (Observer) is going to be very hard to beat, obviously.
“But you know what it’s like… they’re over a distance these horses haven’t been over before, in conditions that are going to be new to many of them.
“I think that brings him right into the race.”
Azazel has drawn barrier 10 in a field of 16 + 4 emergencies with Mick Dee booked to ride at 57kgs.
The above quotes are from Racing.com. The article along with a link to Terry speaking on The Verdict Podcast can be found here