Derby hope Novellist impresses in Group 3
Report: Germany, Sunday
Frankfurt: Fruhjahrs-Preis des Bankhauses Metzler (Group 3) 1m2f
GERMAN DERBY candidate Novellist (Andreas Wohler/Eduardo Pedroza) produced an impressive performanceto win a Group 3 Classic trial at Frankfurt on Sunday.
He demolished his opposition to give trainer and jockey a fourth win in the race in the last six years.
Held up, the 11-10 favourite improved his position turning into the straight and led one and a half furlongs out. The son of Monsun then quickened smartly to beat All Shamar by six lengths.
Wohler also has Black Arrow, another Classic contender in his care, and said: "Black Arrow and Novellist are both on course for the Deutsches Derby, but they are totally different types. They will each run in one of the major Derby trials next."
Also on Sunday
Hoppegarten: Oleander-Rennen (Group 3) 2m 4yo+
Wohler enjoyed more Group 3 glory on Sunday when Altano (Rastilav Juracek) won the Oleander-Rennen.
"I thought Altano would need the race and I thought my other runner Kings Messenger [sixth] had a better chance," said a surprised Wohler.
Long-time leader Tres Rock Danon, who had won the race for the past two seasons (at different venues) and is entered in the Gold Cup at Royal Ascot, was a neck behind the winner in second.
"That was not ideal as he needs a proper pace," trainer Waldemar Hickst said.
"Under these circumstances I am satisfied and he put his poor run in France right today. My other runner Lacateno finished in the money in fourth so I am pleased enough."
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