Track worry for Zoustyle
Gollan eyes weather not barrier
HE MAY have drawn the carpark alley but Tony Gollan believes track conditions could hinder Zoustyle’s Group 1 aspirations on Friday night more than a wide barrier ever would.
The champion trainer said his speed machine only knows one way and will be putting the handlebars down from barrier nine as he looks to cross the field early in the 1000m Moir Stakes in what shapes as his best opportunity to win at Group 1 level.
After missing the kick first up in the Group 2 McEwen Stakes (1000m), Zoustyle dug deep to finish second behind fellow Queenslander Rothfire, when he was entitled to raise the white flag on the turn.
It is that dogged determination that makes Gollan believe the gelding, who has fought his way back from countless setbacks, has developed a new level of toughness.
“I was surprised (he stuck on), he had a lot of pressure put on him that day,” Gollan said.
“This race will have plenty of pressure too, we are under no illusions but I take good confidence that he was able to absorb that pressure in the McEwen and fight on well.
“I thought he was entitled to drop out on the corner there the other day and he fought on beautifully.
“Who knows, maybe we’re going to be the one applying the pressure this time around.”
With The Valley rated a Soft 7, Gollan is on weather watch for both Zoustyle and Isotope, who will line up in the $1m scamper after being scratched from the How Now Stakes at Caulfield last weekend due to a heavy track.
“I’m more concerned about the track conditions than the draw, I think from barrier nine with the speed (Zoustyle) has – at worse he gets across outside the leader,” Gollan said.
“Barrier nine isn’t always great but we need to see how the track is playing on the night. I’m not overly concerned as long as he steps well and gets himself in a rhythm.”
Gollan will put the blinkers back on Isotope in an attempt to bring her back to her brilliant best, which has seen her compete at the top level.
The trainer has never waived in his belief in the mare, and is adamant she is a Group 1 winner in waiting.
After winning the Group 1 Manikato Stakes with Jonker last year, he says Isotope is better equipped to win a big race than he was. “I’m happier at Moonee Valley with her.”