As everyone expected, the trotting superstar that is Keayang Zahara has waltzed away with the Garrards New Zealand Trotting Derby at Addington tonight.
The Victorian three-year-old, backed into $1.05, dispatched the field with ease, winning by nine lengths and extending her unbeaten run to 14 from 14.
“Absolute freak” was the term used by commentator Matt Cross while Trackside presenter Greg O’Connor said she was “crazy good”.
No-one would argue with either description.
Driver Jason Lee was patient off the gate and settled two and then three back the running line before rolling to the lead with a lap to go.
From there the race was as good as over.
Keayang Zahara gave no one else a chance as she cleared out with ease.
It was her third New Zealand win this campaign, following on from The Ascent slot race and last week’s New Zealand Oaks.
It was as impressive a victory as you can get.
Empire City was good in finishing second, ahead of Father Time who was the early leader.
Post race Jason Lee said “she’s a rocket and she had plenty in reserve.”
“I’m lucky to sit behind her.”
“We always knew she was good, just not this good.”
