Auckland Cup: Who Do You Trust To Stay The Best?

Friday, 8 March 2024 by Jason Tan

Asterix winning the Gr.2 Avondale Cup (2400m) at Ellerslie last month. Photo: Trish Dunell

As the Auckland Cup approaches, the racing community turns its attention to a familiar name with an illustrious history in New Zealand's premier staying event. Lance O’Sullivan, a two-time winner as a jockey and successful trainer with Pentane in 2006, alongside co-trainer Andrew Scott, is poised to add another Auckland Cup to his collection. This year, they pin their hopes on Asterix, a horse with a knack for defying expectations.

Asterix: A Proven Competitor

Asterix, known for his remarkable upset in the 2022 NZ Derby over the heavily favoured La Crique, returns to the spotlight. His affinity for Ellerslie's layout and success on the StrathAyr surface underscore his potential in what can be a gruelling two-mile challenge. With a proven ability to stay and a strategic preparation by O’Sullivan and Scott, Asterix enters the race as the leading chance.

The Main Threat: Trust In You

Asterix faces his stiffest competition from Trust In You, another standout performer this season. With a HorseTorque NZ figure bolstered by a powerful late dash (a sectional rating of 115) in the Nathans Memorial, Trust In You emerges as a prime rival. The horse's big weight drop of 6kgs for the Cup and proven track record of finishing strongly, make him the main threat to Asterix's bid for victory.

Strategy on the Track

The race will be a tactical affair, with top jockey Michael McNab at the helm for Trust In You. The key will be balancing the urge to secure an advantageous position without compromising the horse's potent finishing kick. Using his horse early could dull the sprint he might need to find late. 

A Rich Supporting Program

Beyond the Auckland Cup, the day boasts two Group 1 races that give the meeting gravitas. The Sistema Stakes offers a showdown between the undefeated Captured By Love and Karaka Million 2YO victor Velocious, with the latter holding a numerical edge. However, jockey Warren Kennedy's skill could prove pivotal in an anticipated clash of flying fillies.

The Bonecrusher New Zealand Stakes: Legarto's Moment

The spotlight also shines on Legarto in the Bonecrusher New Zealand Stakes, where she is tipped to solidify her status as New Zealand's Weight-For-Age Queen. With overwhelming support from the betting public, her performance could crown an already stellar racing day.

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Jason Tan