Debutante has big shadow to outshine

GIVEN her breeding, comparisons are going to be a natural occurrence, but astute Victorian horsewoman Marg Lee has promptly provided an answer.

Poised to make her racing debut at Club Menangle on Saturday night, Keayang Zabrina has the potential to develop into a handy trotter – but “no”, she isn’t expected to live up to her freakish sibling.

By Bold Eagle from Keayang Yankee, the two-year-old is a half-sister to arguably the best trotter produced in the southern hemisphere – Keayang Zahara.

Also prepared by Lee, Keayang Zahara boasts an impeccable tally of 28 wins and a second from 29 starts, with her haul including a record 15 Group Ones .

Keayang Zahara’s only defeat was at Club Menangle in the Group One Macarthur Mile in May 2025.

“We haven’t got any big expectations on Zabrina at this stage,” Lee said. “She has trialled okay without showing anything special, but she is improving.

“She’s no Zahara, but will be a nice filly as she goes along.”

Engaged in the $75,000 Yabby Dams Final, Keayang Zabrina has drawn to match Keayang Zahara by completing a successful debut after drawing the pole.

Lee will also be represented by Jilliby Connection, which will make her maiden racing appearance from barrier six.

Local reinsman Will Rixon has been booked to partner Keayang Zabrina, with Glen Craven making the trip north to drive Jilliby Connection.

“One could be a tricky draw,” Lee said. “We’ll just have to see how they all come out.

“Connection has been going better on the training track, but the draw has set her a task.”