Tavago (NZ) Outstays his Rivals in Australian Derby

The A$2 million Group 1 Australian Derby (2400m) at Randwick was won in magnificent style by New Zealand-bred son of Tavistock who went through the sale ring at Karaka as a yearling, but it wasn’t the horse people were expecting.

The hot favourite for the prestigious classic was the Victoria Derby and Rosehill Guineas winner Tarzino (NZ) (Tavistock), but instead it was the New Zealand-trained runner Tavago (NZ) (Tavistock) who sprung a surprise and scored a scintillating win.

With a breathtaking performance, the Cambridge gelding outstayed his rivals and left them gasping in his wake. Tavago swept to the lead in the straight and powered clear to win by a resounding three and a quarter lengths.

“This is absolutely unbelievable,” said Natalie Young, who trains the three-year-old in partnership with Trent Busuttin. “We went to Karaka with the owners and picked him out as a yearling for a race like a Derby, and to win this race is amazing.

“We’ve also had the Queensland Derby in mind for him, but we’ll wait and see how he comes through this.”

Tavago was ridden to victory by Tommy Berry, who had absolute faith in the gelding’s staying powers.

“I knew he’d stay all day,” he said. “He was really strong all the way to the line. I’m glad I could do it for the Kiwis. God it’s brilliant.”

A daughter of the Stravinsky mare Sara Ann, Tavago is closely related to many stakes winners including La Sizeranne, Estelle Collection and the champion sprinter Lankan Rupee.

Tavago was bred by Cambridge Stud’s Sir Patrick and Lady Hogan, who stand the budding superstar sire Tavistock. Tavago was part of Cambridge Stud’s draft at the 2014 Premier Sale and was bought by Craig Oldfield, who shares ownership with K R Banks, Mrs P Hatchard and R L Taylor.