Jimmy Takter has provided an update on Down Under superstar Lazarus, the Bettors Delight horse that is prepping for his anticipated U.S. debut. In the update, Takter discusses many aspects of the horse, including acclimation, goals, drivers, and the potential of a legendary legacy.

When Lazarus stepped foot upon American soil at the start of June this year it officially began the next leg of the great pacer’s remarkable journey.

It was also the beginning of a growing hype from the North American and international harness racing media.

Lazarus pictured with Ernie Martinez and Jimmy Takter at his farm in New Jersey (Photo courtesy Vicki Wright)

Since arriving at Jimmy Takter’s East Windsor Farm in New Jersey, the inquiries have been constant.

The reputation and expectation (click here and here) that preceded Lazarus’ arrival would put pressure on any trainer. But his new conditioner seems extremely calm about it all.

From 45 starts, Lazarus has recorded 35 wins, has only missed the board once, and has banked over $3.8 million in purse earnings. He has already won two editions of his home country’s most prestigious race, the New Zealand Cup, and a staggering 15 Group One races in Australasia.

But his ultimate challenge still lies ahead of him.

Lazarus has been purchased by Taylor Made Stallions, who up until last year have concentrated on Thoroughbred stallion ownership, and are based in Kentucky.

Duncan Taylor, one of four brothers that own Taylor Made Stallions, grew up in the Standardbred game. He decided that jumping back into the harness racing world would be a sentimental move and also a lucrative opportunity for the company.

His new trainer, U.S. Hall of Fame inductee Jimmy Takter, is a Swedish native that has tasted success at the very highest level in Europe and North America.

Takter trained Elitlopp winner Moni Maker and also the world’s fastest pacer, Always B Miki, and he now has his sights set on translating Lazarus into an international star.

“My main goal with Lazarus is the Breeders Crown in October,” says Takter. “He has been working very well here, last week he paced a mile at home in 1:56 and did it very handily.

“I intend to go a bit quicker with him this week, but I am very pleased with him. You can tell he’s a legend.”

Lazarus, pictured winning the New Zealand Trotting Cup (Photo courtesy Photosport / NZ Herald)

Takter has reported that Lazarus has recovered from his trip and has adapted well after having come from a winter to spring environment.

“He’s been tremendous so far. There is a lot of stress that is put on a horse coming to this hemisphere. Different food, different environment, but my farm is very quiet and relaxing.

“He arrived looking great, but with a little winter coat. His body was a bit confused so it took a little bit for him to adapt. In the last two weeks I would say he has really blossomed and he is starting to look really good now.”

For Takter the weight of expectation from the international racing community is nothing new, and he thrives on the challenge.

“It’s not intimidating for me. I don’t want to sound arrogant, but I took on Moni Maker years ago and that was the best decision I ever made,” laughed Takter. “I like the idea of taking on great horses. That’s what we work for, right?

“A lot of people are asking about the horse at the moment, hopefully we are able to live up to the expectation.”

Since joining the team, Lazarus has made a unique impression on Takter. Who fondly refers to the horse’s characteristics during his work.

“He’s got personality, he’s very cool. We train him on the straight track with a team of eight horses and he is very vocal,” Takter said. “He screams the whole way. He’s a funny horse.”

Takter feels that the biggest challenge in adapting to the racing style in North America is gate speed.

“I know his racing style at home is varied and over different distances, but up here you have to have gate speed. That will be the biggest thing he will need to have to make it here, but it feels like he has it. I don’t think it will be a problem.”

Lazarus (Photo courtesy Harness Racing New Zealand)

Takter knows you can’t compare champions from different hemispheres against each other.

“I have been asked if Lazarus compares to ‘Miki’ (Always B Miki) and I don’t think you can really put them up against each other. They are such unique horses.

“And that is not to put Lazarus down, of course. It’s just hard to compare at this stage.

“Lazarus is more laid back and more humble. And Miki was more stallion-like. But I was so proud to be associated with that horse and the world record.”

The next task will be to find a suitable catch-driver for the Down Under wonder.

“We don’t know who will drive him yet,” admitted Takter. “Yannick Gingras does a lot of driving for me and I think the horse would fit Yannick’s style.”

“I’m not one hundred per cent sure, but the owners are great people and basically leave it up to me to make the best decision for the horse, which I appreciate.”

So what would Takter deem as a success in North America for Lazarus?

“Pocono Downs is not a track where you can go under 1.46. But if he does win the Breeders Crown this horse will go down as one of the greatest of all time, not only in the Southern Hemisphere but in the Northern Hemisphere as well.”

But to even get to the Crown, the horse will need to trial and show he’s ready for it.

Lazarus will attempt to qualify at the Meadowlands in four weeks’ time, coinciding with the close of the Meadowlands’ current meet and their Hambletonian Day card.

“I hope we can accomplish success at the highest level,” said Takter. “I am very happy to have this horse.

“We all know how difficult it is for horses to travel and keep at their peak form.”

(Harness Racing New Zealand)