Merv reaches for favourite driver Blair Orange for Copy That’s New Zealand Derby campaign

Copy That will have a new driver for his upcoming New Zealand Derby campaign with the country’s leading reinsman Blair Orange engaged to replace David Butcher.

Melbourne owner Merv Butterworth, who is a big fan of Orange’s, opted for the change after Copy That was beaten in last week’s $200,000 Northern Derby at Alexandra Park.

Copy That looked unlucky to finish only second after first being the victim of a Natalie Rasmussen push-out 1250 metres from home then being held up behind his tiring stablemate Tommy Lincoln, a drive which was questioned by the stewards.

Trainer Ray Green said Butterworth actually requested Orange team with Copy That four months ago before the $156,000 Sires’ Stakes Final at Addington “but I talked him out of it.”

Copy That ended up being beaten half a head in that race after putting in several rough steps in the running, Butcher doing well to keep him on an even keel.

Green drove Copy That himself in work this morning and reported the colt was keen to get back into it after enjoying three days off after the Northern Derby.

Copy That is due to fly south on Sunday morning for a two-race campaign, the $50,000 Vero Flying Stakes (mobile 1980m) at Addington on Friday week followed by the $200,000 New Zealand Derby (mobile 2600m) on April 3.

Maurice McKendry was impressed by Platinum Stride’s third in the Young Guns Final.He will be joined on the trip by Platinum Stride, who ran a fine third for Maurice McKendry in the $100,000 Young Guns Final last week behind Krug and It’s All About Faith.

He will run in a $22,000 Sires’ Stakes heat on March 20 and the $50,000 Welcome Stakes on derby night.

“Maurice really liked him and I think he’ll do well down there.”