Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020
Zac Lloyd rode Persian Wonder and Krasina to maiden victories for trainer David Payne at Canterbury on Wednesday, July 22, giving the stable a juvenile double that confirmed the promise within its rising three-year-old team.
Persian Wonder produced the harder-earned victory in the Robrick Lodge Handicap over 1200 metres. After settling second and coming under pressure near the home turn, the colt responded to Zac Lloyd's riding and defeated leader Yoshida by one length.
The double followed another decision involving a young prospect, with Signature Scent facing three Saturday race options as Australian stables plan their spring campaigns.
Persian Wonder Responds Under Pressure
Persian Wonder entered the race after finishing second in the Group 3 Baillieu Handicap over 1400 metres during autumn. His Canterbury performance showed stamina as well as speed when the pressure increased late.
“I knew he was going to keep responding, and once he got a couple of reminders, he really stretched and went on with the job,” Zac Lloyd said.
Krasina Completes the Double
Krasina started as the $1.80 favourite in the Bisley Workwear Handicap over 1200 metres. The filly settled closer than she had in her luckless Randwick third behind Why So Hard and won comfortably.
“The form was there. She was the best horse in the race, so I rode her accordingly and she has done that very comfortably,” Zac Lloyd said.
David Payne was not at Canterbury, but the result continued his family's long association with the Lloyd family, including Zac Lloyd's father, Jeff Lloyd. Official fields and results are available through Racing New South Wales.
Bangkok Hottie is another rising three-year-old in David Payne's stable. The Randwick winner is scheduled to trial at Rosehill on Friday before a planned Princess Series campaign.