The Derby dream came true on Saturday for the OTI stable and connections of Vin de Dance, with the horse showing incredible stamina in the thrilling 2400m Group 1 New Zealand Derby. It was an open race with 200m to go with Mongolianconqueror, Danzdanzdance and Vin de Dance all prominent, but it was a courageous victory for Vin de Dance, getting his head down at the perfect moment for the photo.
While it was a first NZ Derby win for OTI and partners, the result continues an extraordinary run for the Murray Baker/Andrew Forsman training partnership. Having taken out the race previously with Mongolian Khan in 2015, the training duo had their eyes set on the Derby for this horse for the best part of a year and presented him in perfect condition.
It also continued an amazing run of Derby winners for bloodstock consultant Phill Cataldo, who with Terry Henderson identified Vin de Dance as a horse with future Derby potential. Phill has also played an important role in the careers of previous winners Gingernuts (2017) and Military Move (2010).
Vin de Dance was given a quality ride by Jason Waddell. From a wide barrier, Waddell was able to position the horse initially in the ‘one-one’ before making a mid-race move to go around and sit outside the leader. When the leaders were attacked still with 800m to go, Waddell did not panic and kept Vin de Dance in a beautiful rhythm, allowing his stamina to kick in when into the straight. Mongolianconqueror looked the winner when he quickly rushed up outside Vin de Dance over the concluding stages, but Vin de Dance would not be denied.
Our newest Group 1 victor will be making his way over the Tasman to Sydney this week in preparation for the Sydney carnival. He is likely to next contest the Group 1 Rosehill Guineas on March 24, which is a step back in distance to 2000m. He will then look to make it a Derby Double in the Group 1 ATC Australian Derby on April 7 over 2400m.
This horse has an exciting staying career ahead of him. Following his next two runs in Sydney, he is likely to spell with a view to the Caulfield and Flemington spring cups in mind.
