New Zealand Derby Winner for Fastnet Rock
The Three-Year-Old son of Fastnet Rock, Sherwood Forest romped to victory in the Gr.1 New Zealand Derby.
After dominant performances by star filly Two Illicit in the Gr.2 Waikato Guineas and Dragon Lea in the Gr.2 Avondale Guineas leading into the $1 million classics, all eyes were on that pair in what was billed as a possible match race.
Trainer Tony Pike had the utmost confidence in Sherwood Forest, a placegetter in the Gr. I New Zealand 2000 Guineas on the score of stamina.
Over a truly run 2400 metres, Pike believed he had the horse to outstay most of the Derby field.
Pike was exactly right. In the fastest New Zealand Derby since So Casual clocked 2:24.8 in 1998, it was Sherwood Forest who stood strongest of all.
Ridden by star Melbourne-based Kiwi jockey Michael Walker, Sherwood Forest settled in fourth place as Peloton, Red Rufus and Vladivostok set up a strong tempo out in front.
The intensity went up a notch coming down the side of the track as Vinnie Colgan made his move on Two Illicit, with Jason Waddell following him every step of the way on Dragon Leap.