Zabrasive, a strapping son of Zabeel, looks to have the makings of a potential topline stayer.

Afer running a close 2nd on debut at Newcastle over 1400m, Zabrasive headed to Kembla Grange 3 weeks later to coast to a 3 1/2 length win over a mile.

So impressed was John with the run that he brought him straight to Randwick for his next start over 1600m. Facing a big rise in class, he ran a gallant 3rd. John was very proud of the performance and is excited by his potential.

He was then sent for a spell.  He returned to the stable at the end of November looking fabulous.  He has strengthened and matured considerably.  He trialled at Rosehill on 22 January and whilst not asked to do a lot, he was very impressive.  He then returned to the races at Wyong over 1350m starting favourite and won despite a few good chances in the race and track conditions not suiting on the day.

His next assignment was straight into the top grade via the Randwick Guineas Gr1 where he drew off the track, was last to the turn but ran within 1.25L of Shoot Out coming down the outside over the mile. Next up he ran in the Gr1 Darley Rosehill Guineas over 2000m where Gathering set up a fast pace which allowed our horse to chase and turn it into a staying contest where he prevailed over Rock Classic to win his maiden Gr1 victory in a thrilling finish.

The Derby next where he started $3.90 favourite however finished 4th after a muddling run Derby which was never going to suit the staying qualities of Zabrasive, and unfortunately being hemmed on the fence which was deemed the slow lane clearly didnt assist his chances.

He was spelled after the Derby and will be back in the Spring with a Caulfield and Melbourne Cups campaign firmly on the agenda.

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