Reliable sprinter Zou Sensation is poised to reach two notable milestones should he triumph in The Supernova at Pakenham.
A victory in Southside Racing’s second slot race on Saturday would elevate his career earnings beyond $1 million, coming from nine wins across 31 starts.
It would also push his current preparation – which began in May – past the $1 million prize money mark, an impressive haul generated from four wins and two placings across nine runs for the Leon and Troy Corstens and Will Larkin team.
Zou Sensation went past the $500,000 barrier for this campaign when finishing third behind Jigsaw and Arkansaw Kid in The Meteorite (1200m) at Cranbourne on November 22.
“He came out of that last run really well,” Larkin said.
“The drop back to 1200 metres last start wasn’t ideal and they just got away from him in the early stages, but stepping up to the 1400 metres is going to suit and I’m sure he’ll be close to the speed and hopefully hard to run down.
“Going from the winter, straight into the spring, he has been very good.
“He’s won well over $500,000 this preparation, which is not easy to do, but it shows the versatility that he has and whatever race you put him in, he always gives his best, whether it’s winning or in the placings, he’s never that far away.”
Saturday’s edition of The Supernova has drawn a high-quality field featuring Group 1 winners Here To Shock and Pinstriped, along with top-class sprinter Private Eye.
Last year’s quinella, Here To Shock and Arkansaw Kid, again line up as they attempt to replicate their 2023 performances.
Larkin acknowledges the depth of competition but believes their gelding will front up as always.
“When you’re racing in races for this type of prize money, you’re going to have to expect a decent field,” Larkin said.
“He’s not at the top end of the market, but we’ve got a horse that tries his heart out every time he goes to the races, so that’s all you can ask for.”
Zou Sensation sits at $12 in early betting, with Craig Williams’ mount Private Eye the $2.10 favourite.
If you’re betting on The Supernova, compare the best Australian bookmakers at JustHorseRacing’s betting hub.
