Former New Zealand Derby hero Asterix produced another memorable performance on Saturday, returning to the winner’s enclosure with a commanding victory in the Group Three Tattersall’s Cup (2400m) at Eagle Farm.
Tattersall’s Cup Results
The seven-year-old son of Tavistock, whose career reached its pinnacle with Group One success in the 2022 New Zealand Derby, showed he still possesses plenty of class as he claimed the A$200,000 staying feature. The victory marked the eighth success of his 29-race career and lifted his earnings beyond A$1.4 million.
Purchased for $450,000 by Mr Sam Kelt from Curraghmore at the 2020 Ready to Run Sale, Asterix has continued to reward connections with a series of high-quality performances on both sides of the Tasman.
Jockey Tim Clark said the key to victory was ensuring the gelding settled comfortably through the early stages of the 2400-metre contest.
“I just felt my main priority there was just to get him to settle,” Clark said.
“He has raced a bit keenly previously, so I just felt it was really important to get the first two-thirds of the race right. If I could do that, I knew he’d take care of the rest.”
Clark’s patient approach paid dividends as Asterix travelled sweetly before producing a strong finishing burst in the straight to secure the Tattersall’s Cup.
The Asterix Tattersall’s Cup win also provided trainer Chris Waller’s stable with another notable success during the Queensland winter carnival. Waller was represented at Eagle Farm by assistant trainer Charlie Duckworth, who believed the slight drop in class proved decisive after the gelding had competed admirably against stronger company.
“This horse was obviously brilliant at the start of the preparation, and then he took a massive step up in grade when he finished sixth in the Doomben Cup (Group One, 2000m) and Q22 (Group Two, 2200m),” Duckworth said.
“So it was a drop back in grade today, and I think that’s all he needed.
“Tim gave him a lovely ride. He didn’t panic early and just let it all unfold in front of him, and then the horse was really strong late.”
The Asterix Tattersall’s Cup win may not eclipse his New Zealand Derby triumph in terms of prestige, but it highlighted the durability and consistency that have characterised his career. At seven years of age, the accomplished stayer continues to compete at a high level and remains a valuable performer for his connections.
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