Zero Chance in Australian Cup

Talented galloper Extra Zero could back up in next weekend’s Group 1 Australian Cup after returning to form in today’s Group 2 The Yalumba 161 Autumn Classic at Caulfield.

The David Hayes-trained colt, runner up in the G1 Victoria Derby at his last run of a consistent spring, was having his third run of the Autumn in today’s 1800m race for three-year-olds.

Settling well back in a muddling run race and one of changes in the lead, jockey Glen Boss was content to sit wide and out of trouble before circling out wider before the bend.

Straightening not far from the lead, Extra Zero, although running around, ran on strongly to score over Absolute Faith (Not A Single Doubt), who was locked away on the inside for much of the race but got home well late when finally clear.

It was the second win on end in the race for Hayes, who took last year’s version with Stokehouse, but he is confident Extra Zero can continue to improve over slightly longer.

“He was back last but when he made his run at the 800m mark I was very confident he had them covered,” Hayes said. “He was cruising.

“I think he’s a really good 2000m horse. We’ll see how he pulls up. The Rosehill Guineas down the road will be a lovely race but we’ll consider the Australian Cup if he pulls up well.

“I do think he’s a very good Flemington horse and I think the three-year-olds get in pretty well. And I think the Guineas might be the hardest race to win this year.”

POST SCRIPT 2 MARCH 2010: Extra Zero Confirmed For Australian Cu

Saturday’s G2 Autumn Classic winner Extra Zero (Danzero) is an intended runner for this Saturday’s Australian Cup. Trainer David Hayes won the Australian Cup last season with G1 star NICONERO, also a son of Danzero.

Source: Racing & Sport