Volstead filly extends unbeaten run to 11 in Victoria Trotters Derby

Australia’s leading three year old trotter Keayang Zahara (Volstead) extended her unbeaten run to 11 when she comprehensively outclassed her rivals in the Group 1 $75,000 E L Titan @Haras Des Trotteurs Victoria Trotters Derby Final at Maryborough today.

There were some reservations about her prospects after she was drawn awkwardly on the inside of the second row.

However punters had no reason to be concerned as shortly after the start driver Jason Lee eased her back to get the all important one out trail and avoid being boxed in on the rails.

Lee showed great patience sitting back in the field and then in the straight for the bell he quickly whipped around the leader New South Wales visitor Valtino. From then onwards, Keayang Zahara started to lengthen stride and it was clear on straightening that she would prevail.

With Lee flourishing his whip in celebratory style, Keayang Zahara had over 8 metres to spare over Valtino with Pinnie getting up along the inside the third placing. The race was run at a slower pace than last week’s heats but with a slick mile rate of 2.01.1 Keayang Zahara still reeled off a fast last quarter of 28 seconds.

Second favourite Violet Stanford broke up after the field was dispatched and was back at the rear which effectively ruined her prospects.

Jason Lee was full of praise for his star filly.

“We are lucky to own her. She was easier to handle, The race was running good and they weren’t going hard. I was pretty confident with her speed” We obviously know how quick she is. So I didn’t need to panic.”

“Days like this don’t just happen!”

Jason Lee on superstar filly Keayang Zahara and the team effort involved to achieve her victory today in the Group 1 E L Titan at Haras Des Trotteurs Victoria Trotters Derby Final at Maryborough. pic.twitter.com/sGQvXvH8JE

— The Trots (@TheTrotsComAu) October 27, 2024

Trainer Margaret Lee indicated that Keayang Zahara will travel this week to New Zealand where she will participate in the inaugural running of the NZ$500,000 Ascent for three year old trotters at Addington on 15 November.

Valtino was far from disgraced in holding on for second placing and driver Greg Sugars indicated that the colt will stay in work for next months Breeders Crown series.

Similarly Violet Stanford will run in the same series for fillies.

In winning Keayang Zahara equalled an unique record held by former great pacing filly Argent who was successful in the New south wales oaks and derby and Victoria Oaks and Derby as well as other classic events.

Keayang Zahara gives every indication that she will do likewise.

For complete race results, click here.

by Tony Milanese, for Harnesslink