Matamata trainer John Sargent unveiled a potential NZ Derby horse when Savarhys (NZ) turned in a barn storming finish to win the Dunstan All 4 Feet Maiden (1300m) at Taupo on Wednesday.

Savarhys (Savabeel) had it all to do after blowing the start but responded in impressive fashion to defeat Riccioli (Savabeel) by three-quarters of a length.  “He’s a lovely horse,” Sargent said.  “He’s by Savabeel and they’re firing.

“He had two or three trials to learn and I said to Vinny (Colgan) to give him some room and you might see a decent horse.  He is bred to stay and he’s very laid back.”

While the New Zealand Derby in March looks the long-term assignment, Sargent isn’t convinced the NZ Two Thousand Guineas at Riccarton in November will be on the agenda.

Savarhys was bred by Chris Turner and Waikato Stud.  He is out of the G3 winning Pins mare Rhysess and was purchased by Paul Beamish at the NZB 2010 Premier yearling sale for $40,000.