By Geoff Newling
Talented Zampano will go for a spell after his hard-fought win in Saturday’s $30,000 The Verdict Showcase 2YO Handicap (1000m) at Gunnedah.
Melissa Dennett-trained son of Tassort, who won on debut at Tamworth last month, had to dig deep to keep his unbeaten record intact.
Zampano started a short-priced favourite ($1.18) and carried 59.5kg but had to withstand a concerted challenge from the Rodney Ollerton-trained Rivana, who carried 54.5kg after apprentice Mitch Stapleford’s 2kg claim.
“He got the job done,” a delighted and relieved Mel Dennett said.
“He’s just green too.”
Dennett said his short price wasn’t a true indication of how the race would pan out.
“As short as he was everyone thought he would by the length of the straight. But he’s been in work a long time.”
She has been ready to spell him at any stage if he showed any sign of wanting a break.
“Ability got him to the line today,” she said as she prepares to spell the gelding.
“He’s just a nice horse, got a good attitude,” she added of a gelding who has won twice from two starts.
“He’ll go for a three or four month spell and come back in the Spring.
“Hopefully he’ll strengthen up and will be a nice three-year-old.”
Dennett has 15 in work at her Tamworth stable with a few horses to come back in and join some talented thoroughbreds.
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