New Zealand Oaks winner ‘Keep the Peace’ is set to wreak havoc in Saturday’s AJC Derby, and become just the ninth filly to win the prestigious staying test.
Trainer Shaun Ritchie has always had a high opinion of his horse, and believes that she is a great chance to secure Australian Group 1 success.
After discussing with co-owner Paul Bellingham about a trip to Sydney, Ritchie agreed that this years Derby is not as strong as once thought and seemed a logical option.
“There is certainly no dominant colt or gelding and we know that our filly gets the distance,†Ritchie said.
With showers expected to arrive on Saturday, Ritchie’s confidence has gained momentum. Her wet form includes a six length win in heavy going at Trentham last spring, showing the fillies liking to some cut in the ground
“I would hate to see the Derby run on a heavy track and not have her in the field,” Ritchie said when revealing plans for the filly to New Zealand media.
Whatever the state of the track on Saturday, expect to see the super filly right in the finish, showing the Australian audience her blistering turn of foot.
Keep the Peace is currently rated a $9.50 chance, fourth in betting behind sturdy favourite ‘Zabrasive’.
Written by Isaac Chaplin
