Our 2022 Gr.1 New Zealand Derby winner Asterix returned to the winner's circle at Tauranga on Saturday.
Running over a distance well short of his best (1600m), class prevailed with Asterix scoring comfortably in the hands of in form jockey Craig Zackey.
Asterix, who races in the colours of Sam Kelt and is part-owned by former Black Caps cricketer Mark Greatbatch, stayed on strongly to beat La Crique and Regal Lion in the New Zealand Derby in what was just his fourth career start.
That proved to be his last race as a three-year-old as his feet were giving him problems. He has since undergone remedial surgery and rehabilitation, making his return to the winner's circle all the more satisfying.
Asterix will likely next be seen in the Gr.1 Herbie Dyke Stakes over 2000m at Te Rapa, 11 February.
