Tavistock unearths another Derby contender

 
14 Sep 2017

Tavistock three-year-old Tavistock Abbey turned heads at Bendigo on Thursday as he raced into Gr.1 Victorian Derby contention with a brilliant winning performance.

The Anthony Freedman prepared Tavistock Abbey, a $200,000 purchase from the Rich Hill draft at the 2016 premier session at Karaka, recorded his first victory at just his third start when he easily disposed of his maiden rivals by 3 3/4 lengths over 1600m.

Wearing the colours made famous by champion galloper Super Impose, rider Luke Currie had the gelding poised to strike after enjoying a soft run in transit and when he asked for an effort the response was immediate.

“He travelled nicely to the corner and just ran away from them in the end,” Currie said.

“He always travelled like the winner and quickened nicely when I asked him. He’s a nice horse going forward.”

Freedman’s racing manager Brad Taylor was quick to explain Tavistock Abbey’s last-start failure as the camp indicated a tilt at the Victoria Derby (2500m) at Flemington on November 4 was on the cards.

“We were highly disappointed last time, but Mark Zahra came back and said he just didn’t handle the track or racing in tight quarters,” Taylor said.

“We said to Luke to get him some clear air and when he was travelling like he was on the corner he put them away pretty impressively.

“There’s going to be a Derby nomination and we’ll look to use the Derby trial at Flemington as his next start.”

Tavistock has already been represented by Hong Kong Derby winner Werther, Singapore Derby winner Infantry, Australian Derby winner Tavago and Victorian Derby winner Tarzino.

Tavistock Abbey continued a successful week for Cambridge Stud's Montjeu sire Tavistock, who was represented by Casterton maiden winner Greycliffe and Seymour maiden sprint winner Rene. - NZ Racing Desk, Staff Reporter