Negus prepared star pacer Courage Under Fire at the turn of the century, grabbing six Derby titles on both sides of the Tasman.
The contrast between the diminutive Courage Under Fire and the big hulking mass that is Quick As A Trick is obvious, but Negus thinks the son of Lis Mara is a top stayer in the making after his win in the graduation series final at Addington yesterday.
Co-breeder Barrie Barber looked after Quick As A Trick early before giving him to Negus to prepare. It was not long before Courage Under Fire's Australia-based owner, Greg Brodie - a long-term client of Negus - came knocking.
''I always liked this horse and kept going good at the trials,'' Negus said.
''Barrie kept turning down increasing offers from Greg and in the end, he succumbed.
''But he was well and truly aware he could be good - he had to win with that run if he was any good.''
Quick As A Trick led then sat in the trail behind favourite Burning, but had driver Matthew Williamson's arms well and truly stretched as he raced keenly in the trail.
''He really hasn't got any idea what's happening.''
The gelding, who Negus described as ''big and dumb'', reared up in the winner's circle as well.
''He knew he was the only one there and he didn't like that much.''
Negus will move much of his team south to Waikouaiti for the summer before he makes the permanent move back to Canterbury in the middle of next year.
Brodie was happy for the 3yr-old to stay in New Zealand for the time being, Negus said.
''He will [leave him in New Zealand] if he's a Derby horse and that's what I told him he was - now I'm hoping I'm right.
''I didn't really want to lose him because if I look after him, he'll be a really good horse.''
Negus will now set Quick As A Trick and Music, a winner at Forbury Park last week, for racing in Southland, including the Southern Supremacy series later this season.
''I'm looking forward to those ones racing and qualifying for the Jewels.''
