OTI Racing’s Terry Henderson says any rain to hit Flemington before Saturday will only enhance Azazel’s (NZ) (Shocking) chances of causing an upset in the VRC Derby.
Henderson told The Verdict podcast he was buoyant about the young stayer’s hopes this weekend.
Importantly, there is little concern about Azazel running out a strong 2500 metres.
“He is bred that way,” Henderson said.
“He’s out of a Tavistock mare, by Shocking.
“If we get some rain on Friday, that will bring him right into the race.
“The Godolphin horse (Observer) is going to be very hard to beat, obviously.
“But you know what it’s like… they’re over a distance these horses haven’t been over before, in conditions that are going to be new to many of them.
“I think that brings him right into the race.
“We’re hoping for the rain and we are pretty confident he’ll get the mile and a half.”
Azazel has won two of his three career starts to date, showing plenty of grit to win the listed Geelong Classic last week.
He’ll jump from barrier 10 this Saturday, with Mick Dee retaining the ride.