Cowra trainer Andrew Molloy has earlier than anticipated called champion sprinter Zarhron back to the yard with hope of landing a spot in a $1.3 million race at Randwick in October.
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Racing NSW announced on Wednesday their new feature race – the $1.3 million Kosciuszko – for country horses only.
The unique concept will work in a similar fashion to Racing NSW’s flagship race, The Everest, in that slot holders are to negotiate with owners and trainers to have a horse race on their behalf.
Zarhron took out his fourth straight Japan Cowra Cup (1200m) in January this year, won back-to-back Wellington Town Plates (1100m) in 2015 and 2016 and has a Bill Aspros Cup (1200m) to his name.
Molloy said after reading the conditions he picked up the phone and called owner Ashley Gilbert.
“It’s pretty exciting. [Zarhron’s] in a paddock at Crookwell at the moment but now we’re bringing him down on Sunday. He usually wouldn’t come until the end of next month,” Molloy said.
“His chances are slim but they’d be slimmer if he’s not in the yard. I’m pumped.”
The only restriction for the new race is the horse has to be trained in the country, as of Wednesday.
While slots for The Everest cost $600,000, the 12 Kosciuszko slots will be raffled.
Punters can purchase a ticket for $5 at any NSW Australian Hoteliers Association (AHA) hotel that features a TAB outlet.
The 12 slot holders will be drawn on September 14.
They will then have to select a country NSW-trained horse to race on their behalf, subject to agreement being reached on the split of the prizemoney, in The Kosciuszko on Everest day, October 13, at Royal Randwick.
The race will be run over Zarhron’s pet distance of 1200m and at set weights and penalties.
He’s won five races from seven attempts over 1200m.
“It’s probably a million-to-one chance but if you wanted one from around here he’d be hands down the best,” Molloy said.
“It’s twelve weeks from Saturday. It usually takes us a bit longer than that with him.
“He’s not a big name but he’s got a chance. I’ll probably be the first one at the track on Monday morning.”
Kosciuszko tickets go on sale on Thursday. Racing NSW will also be contributing $125,000 from the sale of tickets in the Kosciuszko promotion to the Aussie Helpers charity to support NSW farmers.