Freakish trotter back in action

TOUTED as one of the most exciting trotting prospects in recent memory, Keayang Zahara will need to live up to the hype if she is to maintain her undefeated status this weekend.

Since making her debut last April, Keayang Zahara has had the industry abuzz with her seemingly freakish ability, which saw her finish the year with a perfect record from 14 starts and a bankroll of $664,330.

Dominating her opposition on both sides of the Tasman, the Marg Lee-trained filly captured the New South Wales, Victoria and New Zealand Trotters' Derbys and Oaks, Vicbred Super Series and Need For Speed Princess Finals and the $500,000 The Ascent.

Sent for a well-earned spell following her Derby triumph in Addington last December, Keayang Zahara will make her racing return in Melton on Saturday night.

Unfortunately for the squaregaiter, she has to face a small, but strong, field of season-hardened open class rivals first-up!

"It's a really big step up," Lee said. "It is never easy for a young horse, be it trotter or pacer, to come back against top class.

"Last year she was in three-year-old races and now straight up to open class...it's a bit like a young footballer going into seniors without being given that grounding.

"But she has to start somewhere, and because of the handicapping, this is where she has got to go."

Despite the enormous task at hand, TAB Fixed Odds have the daughter of Volstead listed as a $1.35 favourite from barrier three over 1720 metres.

Proven open class performer Im Ready Jet is considered the main danger at $3.20 from gate two.

"The draw is pretty good, but we haven't set a plan yet," Lee said. "She has had a couple of good trials and I am happy with where she is at.

"She is as fit as she can be before racing, but will definitely need the run."