Etymology Second In Victoria Derby

A brave run from the inexperienced Etymology has carried him into second place in the first classic of the Australian season, the G1, 2500m Victoria Derby at Flemington on October 31.

Having only his sixth lifetime start, Etymology (John O'Shea/James McDonald) endured early interference and a chequered passage in the home straight before surging to the line too late to catch the winner, Tarzino.

Shards (John O'Shea/Hugh Bowman) finished ninth after leading past the winning post the first time.

For trainer John O'Shea the result added to the frustration of training yet another placegetter on Melbourne's biggest raceday.

But he had plenty to console himself with.

"It's a shame he couldn't win it, but I think we have a very nice horse to go on with," O'Shea said.

"He's come a long way in a short time and I'm actually quite proud of him.

"On that performance he's a horse that's going to win us some good races."

After racing three-wide for the first 1000m, Etymology, a son of New Approach from the Danehill mare Weaver Of Words, found a spot two off the fence in midfield at the 1400m.

He remained there until the final 500m when he joined the leading pack turning for home.

But McDonald then had difficulty gaining clear running until well into the straight, by which time the winner had dashed away.

When a gap finally came he pushed Etymology through and gave chase, gradually taking ground off Tarzino all the way to the line.

Etymology finished two lengths behind the winner with four-and-a-half lengths to the third placegetter Kia Ora Koutou.

Shards rider High Bowman said the colt had failed to run out the distance of the Derby.