Purton to partner Andalus in Australian Derby

Source: NZ Racing News

Hong Kong Champion jockey Zac Purton is playing a pivotal role in the fortunes of Kiwi runners in this year’s Sydney Autumn Carnival.

Last Saturday he upset the applecart when driving late with Artorius to nab the Mark Walker-trained Imperatriz on the line to win the Gr.1 Canterbury Stakes (1300m) at Randwick.

He will be on the other side of the coin with Kiwis next month after accepting the ride on Gr.1 New Zealand Derby (2400m) runner-up Andalus in the Gr.1 Australian Derby (2400m) at Randwick on April 1.

There has been fierce competition to secure the services of the in-form hoop in the A$2 million Classic, with Cambridge trainer Stephen Marsh coming out on top.

Andalus is currently a $12 winning chance with bookmakers for the Australian Derby, with New Zealand Derby hero Sharp ‘N’ Smart at the top of the market at $4.