Upset NZ G1 win for Authentic Paddy

Veteran Authentic Paddy has produced an upset in the Group One Zabeel Classic after being placed twice previously in the Ellerslie feature.

Trained by Lisa Latta and ridden by Trudy Thornton, Authentic Paddy beat Lizzie L’Amour and multiple Group One winner Volkstok’n’barrell. in Tuesday’s 2000m-race.

“It’s just an absolute buzz,” Latta told NZ Racing Desk.

“He’s a lovely horse and he so deserved that. It’s been a great day for us.”

Latta, who was on her home track at Awapuni where she had a winning treble, said Thornton was an essential part of Authentic Paddy’s win.

“He needs a strong rider and Trudy does exactly what she’s told,” she said.

Thornton got away with easy sectional times in front and Authentic Paddy held Lizzie L’Amour by 1-1/4 lengths.

“It’s amazing. He knows his job and he’s a pleasure to ride,” Thornton said.

The Zabeel Classic was the final race for 2016 Australian Oaks winner Sofia Rosa who ran seventh.

The Stephen Marsh-trained mare is in foal to Savabeel.