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News

It’s time for the Lion to Roar

The Group 1 New Zealand Derby is something very familiar to many OTI owners. It’s even more familiar to Murray Baker and his training partner, Andrew Forsman. On Saturday, the two groups will again combine in the hope that Regal Lion will prevail in the Classic.

The son of Jakkalberry, Regal Lion has all the credentials to take out the NZ$1m race. Purchased by OTI on the advice of Phill Cataldo and Murray after a solid run in the Waikato Guineas, the horse has laid the perfect foundation to stay the 2400m journey. His run is the Group 2 Avondale Guineas on unsuitable ground confirmed  that the gelding was ready to run a huge race.

On Saturday from barrier 6, on what appears to be good ground, Regal Lion should get every opportunity. A strong finisher, it is hoped that Matthew Cameron, his jockey, can settle in the mid-division of the 13 horse field. If the pace of the race is strong, it will further improve his chances. To view the Derby field, click here.

OTI purchased Regal Lion from his owner/breeder Barbara and Carl McComb. Having remained in the ownership, they are likely to be the only owners on track to enjoy the experience and hopefully the celebrations. There’s little doubt that had Covid restrictions been eased a little earlier by the NZ Government, a contingent of Australian owners would also be there, rather than them being forced to watch from Flemington or Randwick.

For Murray Baker, the race will have extra significance as it will be his last Derby as a trainer on New Zealand soil. With two other runners in the race, there’s a reasonable chance that he will go out a winner. With luck however, Murray can still celebrate further Derby success in Sydney before his retirement on April 30. Let’s hope that success is also with Regal Lion.