Morrinsville-trained Laekeeper continued his rapid rise through the jumping ranks with his win in the Sydenham Hurdles at Riccarton on Saturday.
Jockey Emily Farr rated the horse perfectly in front to win the 3100m feature, in a brilliant trial for the Grand National Hurdles.
Farr was not intending to lead the race, but Laekeeper had a firm plan of his own.
"The plan wasn’t to lead, but he’s super fresh," she said.
"He’s just so economical in his jumping but he can take the long ones, too. He’s improved with every single start."
The victory should be enough to make Laekeeper favourite for the Grand National Hurdles on Wednesday.
It also furthered the 7yr-old’s brilliant hurdling record.
Laekeeper has started only seven times over hurdles for five wins and two placings for trainer Simon Rees.
North Taieri grey Jackfrost also put in an excellent National Hurdle trial in running second.
He was four lengths ahead of Southland raider Drumgold, who went a solid race for third.
Jackfrost was trapped at the back of the field after jumping out of the gates awkwardly.
He got into a terrible position at the 700m before rider Stuart Higgins was able to work him into clear running.
Jackfrost let down strongly in the straight, but did not look a serious threat to Laekeeper.
The Sydenham Hurdles began with the shock exit of prolific hurdle winner The Shackler.
Rider Aaron Kuru eased the horse out of the race after just two fences.
The Shackler was later found to be lame with a swollen pastern.
Before the race it was revealed stewards were told the horse emerged a "little scratchy" from his box on Saturday morning.
But The Shackler passed two veterinary examinations before being cleared to start race.
