In Excess Outstanding In Group One Derby Lead Up

In Excess (NZ) (Bettor's Delight) showed superb speed and stamina to win the A$31,000 Listed South East Derby (2138m) at Albion Park on Saturday night.

The NZB Standardbred graduate showed what a force he will be in the A$150,000 Group One Queensland Derby (2680m) with his powerful display to win for trainer Darrel Graham and driver Angus Garrard.

The star three-year-old was purchased by Dean Shannon’s Montana Park for $130,000 when he was offered by breeder-vendors Birchbrook Breeding Ltd at the 2022 National Yearling Sale at Christchurch.

After a successful career in New Zealand, In Excess has continued to shine after crossing the Tasman and joining the Graham stable.

With his great gate speed, In Excess led soon after the start of Saturday’s night’s lead up to the Queensland Derby before a series of challengers set up a cracking early pace.

After the early burn, Garrard slotted In Excess into the trail behind fellow NZB Standardbred graduate Major Hot (NZ) (Art Major).

Despite working hard in the first lap of the South East Derby, In Excess still had plenty in reserve as he sped along the inner to score a big win at the Constellations Carnival.

After showing plenty of speed and stamina along the way, stepping up the 2680m of the Group One Queensland Derby in a fortnight looks ideal for the classy pacer.

“We had to burn out a little bit there tonight and he was on the speed the whole way but he follows the speed good anyway, so I am sure the 2600m will suit him in the Derby,” Garrard told Harnesslink.

After working hard to find the lead, Major Hot fought on courageously to take third placing, in another strong showing ahead of the Queensland Derby.

Major Hot was purchased for $95,000 by PI & GJ Kennard Bloodstock Ltd when he was offered by breeder-vendors Breckon Farms at the 2022 National Yearling Sale at Karaka.