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| Staff Writer |
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Queen Azteca will attempt to become the first filly to win the Gr.2 UAE Derby since Godolphin's Khawlah in 2011 when she represents Scandinavia on Dubai World Cup day at Meydan.
The flashy, white-faced 3YO daughter of Sharp Azteca has come a long way since being purchased by her trainer and Irish bloodstock agent Edgar Byrne for just US$39,000 at the Tattersalls Guineas Sale.
"It's been great," says Niels Petersen, reflecting on the filly's progress at the Dubai Carnival. "For us, from little Norway, it's a huge achievement and it gives a good boost to what we've been trying to do for years. That the plan worked out is probably the greatest thing of all."
Queen Azteca has already made history for her connections, roaring to an eight-length victory in January's Cocoa Beach Stakes before dramatically reeling in pacesetter Arigatou Gozaimasu to win February's Gr.3 UAE Oaks by three-quarters of a length.
Despite earning enough qualifying points in the UAE Oaks to guarantee a place in the prestigious Kentucky Oaks, Petersen has opted to keep his stable star in Dubai and take on the colts in the UAE Derby instead.
"The Derby is here, and we are here, so that makes it a lot easier than going to America," explains the 13-time Scandinavian champion trainer, who had previously endured a frustrating run in Dubai with just one winner from 184 runners before this season.
The 53-year-old Danish-born handler, who is based in Norway, has built his reputation through hard work and a spirit of adventure since starting out with just four horses in 1997-98.
As the sole Scandinavian representative on Dubai World Cup night, Queen Azteca will face her toughest challenge yet when taking on the colts in the UAE Derby.
Jockey Carlos Lopez, who will partner Queen Azteca on Saturday, believes the filly has more to offer.
"This is my first time in the Dubai World Cup meeting, so I'm excited," says the 43-year-old Chilean-born rider who moved to Denmark in 2000. "I have a very nice horse and I think there will be a strong pace which will suit her as she never gives up. I think we will see more from her this time."
Of Queen Azteca's fighting qualities, Lopez adds: "She's so calm normally but she's a fighter and she has character. When she gets angry, she gets angry!"
Queen Azteca's UAE Derby bid represents the culmination of Petersen's patient approach and growing international ambition.
"Queen Azteca put us on the map here, but my biggest wish is to get out on the big scene and make my mark," says the trainer. "I want my horses to go out and win big races. I've done everything I can back home, and I need a challenge. I want to make a real impact."
The 3YO filly will be carrying the hopes of the entire Scandinavian racing community when she lines up against her male rivals on Saturday, with her trainer confident that her fighting spirit will stand her in good stead against the colts.