Zhukov has class edge

REIGNING premier reinsman Todd Rattray is confident his fiveyear-old Zhukov Leis can keep his unbeaten record this preparation intact when he steps out in a C5-C6 event over 2090m in Hobart tonight.

Zhukov Leis has been impressive in winning at his only two starts this time in, of which the latest in Launceston last week was one of his best. He led last start and recorded a personal-best mile rate over the 1680m trip of 1min, 56.1sec and he ran home his last half (800m) in 58.4sec.

While tonight’s assignment is over a longer journey, Rattray is adamant the gelded son of Somebeachsomewhere is up to the task.

“Zhukov Leis had a short break and he seems to have come back a more settled and focused racehorse,” Rattray said. “I was very happy with his effort last start and he has done very well since that run, so if everything goes to plan, he probably wins again.”

Rattray, who also was last season’s Halwes Medallist, is hoping Taurisi can make it three wins in succession when he takes on a small but handy field in the Olympus Feeds Pace, an open free-for-all over 1609m.

Taurisi has drawn gate five in a field of six, so Rattray is likely to try to use the gelding’s gate speed to find a forward spot.

“It’s a tricky draw for Taurisi but, if we can push forward and get a spot one-out, he should be hard to beat because he’s in really good form and only needs a bit of luck to go his way to win again.”