Another piece in the jigsaw fell into place when Zippity Zoustar led throughout to land his maiden at Warrnambool on Wednesday.
Notably tardy from the gates, the big, raw gelding has learned to jump with the rest of the field and followed up his last start second at Hamilton with a dominant performance that justified his $1.80 starting price in the Coastal Wholesalers Maiden Plate (1700m).
With giant strides, Zippity Zoustar ridden by Jarrod Fry, loped along in the lead and never looked in danger.
Turning for home, Albanian Bay ($4) chased into second place, but was no match at all for the son Zoustar who under hands and heels won by 2-1/4 lengths, with Alblazer ($81) another 1-1/4 lengths away third.
Jarrod Fry acknowledged the improvement in the four-year-old today after riding him at Hamilton.
“He jumped better and travelled better today and he is getting his head around the game,” Jarrod said.
“I didn’t have to encourage him as much as last start and he flattened out a fair bit better as well.”
Zippity Zoustar has taken time but has given his owners plenty of encouragement with his three minor placings, including one at Sandown last July.
Warrnambool was only his eighth race start and trainer Jamie Edwards was pleased to see the horse put two good runs together.
“He’s been a bit hit and miss but it was good to see him jump with them like he did at Hamilton,” Jamie said.
He said Zippity Zoustar looked “a bit clumsy” going to the line but described him as an exciting prospect.
“I think he’s going to get better as he gets up in grade and has something to follow,” Jamie said.
“Even bowling along in front his ears were twitching and when he put two or three lengths on them, it seemed like he was waiting for them.
“He is a really nice horse with good temperament which is going to take him along way.”