Will history repeat with Zahara?

CONNECTIONS of freakish squaregaiter Keayang Zahara hope Split Enz were correct when they sang ‘history never repeats’.

Attempting to equal Lyell Creek’s Australasian trotting record of 15 Group Ones on Saturday night, Keayang Zahara will return to the scene of her only defeat – Club Menangle.

Boasting an impeccable record of 26 wins from 27 starts, Keayang Zahara finished second behind injury-prone star Susan Is Her Name in a Group One last May.

The Marg and Paddy Lee-trained mare led from barrier four on that occasion…the same draw she has this weekend!

“It is what it is,” Lee said. “They can all be beaten no matter where they draw. She won the Oaks and Derby up there, so we’ll focus on that.

“She’s feeling as good as ever and we’re as happy with her as we can be.”

Naturally the $100,000 major has attracted a stellar field, including Queensland star, Gus.

Trained by Chantal Turpin, Gus announced his arrival at the top by capturing the Group One Dominion Trot and New Zealand Trotters’ Free-For-all – in Addington last November.

Sent for a well-earned break, the son of Majestic Son has been impressive winning his two starts this campaign, including overcoming a 40-metre handicap first-up from his spell.

Due to his ODM status, Gus will begin from barrier 10.

Talented, but erratic, gelding Watts Up Partytime poses a major threat from the pole for astute horseman Rickie Alchin.

Triumphant at three wins of his last four starts, Watts Up Partytime can be a risky proposition at the start.

Then there is Jilliby Ballerini, which has compiled a record of 15 wins and 12 placings from 33 starts while living in her stablemate Keayang Zahara’s shadow.

Glenn Craven will take the reins behind the daughter of Majestic Son from barrier three.

“Ballerini also seems good and we’re happy with her draw as well,” Lee said. “She’ll run her usual good race.”