Racing: Zagata on track at Hastings

The projected good surface at Hastings tomorrow is not going to suit all jumpers, but it will certainly be to Zagata's advantage.

We don't see too many major jumping events run on firmish footing - Zagata's preference.

Zagata's form invariably takes a tumble when he strikes wet and testing conditions, like his distant fifth in the Manawatu Steeples on heavy footing last start and his beaten performance on slow ground at Ellerslie the start before, when 10 lengths from Sir Heelan.

But three back he was a stylish winner on a decent surface on this track when he easily beat Lord Custom, who beat him by 14 lengths last start.

The small field and the ideal surface makes Zagata a sound prospect. He will be ridden by Matthew Gillies, who finished off last winter's jumps season like he owned the show.

There are only seven acceptors, but the field still has a remarkably even look about it.

The good track is also going to suit Volkswagin. He chased hard after Climbing High the first day at Te Rapa in May and was then run down late by Myths And Legends in the Waikato Steeples.

The slower footing at Ellerslie last start was not ideal and Volkswagin's fourth was sound enough.

Richard Eynon replaced Shannon Doyle on Volkswagin.

Local trainer Paul Nelson has a strong hand in the race with Ho Down and Better On Top engaged.

"I thought Better On Top went well when he won at Trentham last start and he wasn't far from Zagata at Hastings the time before," said Nelson yesterday.

"It's shaping up like a nice race."

Karlos looked the big improver last winter, but has been disappointing this time in.