Harness racing superstar Lazarus was back at the workouts today in preparation for his defense of this years Christchurch Casino New Zealand Trotting Cup.
Starting in a two horse workout at Rangiora this afternoon, Lazarus and stablemate Heaven Rocks went around together in blustery conditions.
Lazarus was driven by Mark Purdon and led from the start in the 2000m stand, with Heaven Rocks and Natalie Rasmussen immediately in behind him with a slow but safe beginning. The race only got serious in the straight with both horses sprinting up the lane under strong holds.
At the line, Lazarus managed to hold out heaven Rocks by a nose winning in a 2-06.6 mile rate with a final 800m in 56.3 and 400m in 27.7 seconds.
Meanwhile top mare Dream About me has been scratched from the Hannon Memorial at Oamaru this Sunday.
Trainer Mark Purdon said "It is nothing too serious, but she was a bit lame on one foot today and our blacksmith said she will need a few days to recover".
For full results of todays workouts click here.
Lazarus winning todays workout (last 800m)
Harnesslink Media