New Zealand Bloodstock Sales Provide Yet Another Group 1 Star In South Africa

New Zealand bred horses continued their outstanding strike rate in South Africa's top races when TIMBER TRADER (NZ) powered to victory in the Group 1 SA Derby at Turffontein on the weekend.

A top field of 14 contested the prestigious 2400m classic, with the 3yo son of Woodman (USA) from NZ mare Glenview (by Sir Tristram) running out a 1 and ½ length winner over nearest rival Steiger (SthAf) with Wolf Whistle (SthAf) filling third.

TIMBER TRADER was purchased by his trainer, Gary Alexander, at New Zealand Bloodstock's 2000 Premier Yearling Sale, for just NZ$47,500.

The colt was bred and sold by Tim Bodle of Whakanui Stud, Hamilton. After a look at Timber Trader's pedigree it comes as no surprise that he has talent. His dam, Glenview, won the Group 2 AJC Surround Stakes and the Grp 2 STC Tea Rose Stakes, as well as being 3 times Group 1 placed. Glenview is in turn a daughter of New Zealand Oaks winner, Zepherin. As well as Timber Trader, Glenview has left the multiple stakes performer in Australia, Lord of the Pines.

Gary Alexander's brother Dean Alexander shares in the ownership of the exciting colt, along with Messers Michael, Berzack, Cousin, Latilla and Sadie.

The Alexander brothers have long been regular buyers at New Zealand Bloodstock sales and their loyalty has been well rewarded over the years with many top horses being purchased from NZ.

Described as a handsome, rangy chestnut, Timber Trader was impressive in the way he fought on resolutely despite being put under considerable pressure from the second placed horse, finding an extra gear in the closing stages to finish with a length and a half margin at the post

Trainer, Gary Alexander, has a very high opinion of his NZ bred colt and has mapped out an ambitious plan for Timber Trader over the months ahead, including a possible crack at South Africa's highly coveted Group 1 Rothmans July Hcp.