Zero’s a hero for Danzero

Zero’s a hero for Danzero

When a grand-looking dark brown mare by Danzero ran away with a $45,000 1000-metre race at Eagle Farm on Saturday, her performance received more than usual appreciation from the commentator.

And why not? Zero Rock has overcome more than most horses, and she makes the most of every moment. Saturday’s win was her eighth from 16 appearances since her late 2YO debut win in June 2008, and she’s been second four times, leaving only four unplaced runs – and she’s been fourth in two of those!

Not bad for a mare that has been through a war or two away from the track. First of all, her mother Broc ‘N’ Roll (by Brocco) stood on her, nearly killing her, as a foal. Next to threaten her life was a virus and, just for a change earlier this year, she slipped and hurt herself, ending all hopes of a Brisbane winter campaign.

Placings in last year’s BRC George Moore S. G3, and Doomben S. LR are Zero Rock’s only black type performances but – fingers crossed – it won’t be long before we’ll see her name in black capitals.

Her trainer Kelso Wood has previously revealed to Racing and Sports that he considered a trip to Melbourne with her for the MRC Thousand Guineas G1 two years ago and believes “she’s capable of winning a Group One somewhere” for her owner-breeder David Devine.

It wouldn’t be too much of a surprise to see another stakeswinner emerge from Zero Rock’s pedigree. Quite apart from Danzero’s propensity for siring top performers (36 stakeswinners and counting), she’s from the family of triple Oaks winner November Rain, multiple Group winner Stormhill and Group 1-winning 2YO San Luis (by Flying Spur ). 4YO mare Dubleanny has been the family’s latest flag-bearer, including the 2010 VRC A.R. Creswick S. LR among her five victories.

Immediate plans for Zero Rock are to repeat last summer’s campaign, and start in the George Moore Stakes again, before an attempt to boost her already handsome, $400,000-plus prizemoney in the $400,000 GCTC Magic Millions Cup in January.