KEY POINTS:
Matamata trainer John Sargent is hoping the Ellerslie track isn't too hard when he lines Sarajay against Xcellent in the Zabeel Classic on Boxing Day.
Sarajay, who is in foal to Zabeel, booked her place in the group one contest with victory in the $120,000 group two Gasmate Stakes (1600m) at Te Rapa on Saturday.
Owned by broadcaster and bloodstock agent Adrian Clark, Sarajay was winning at group two level for the second time.
With a group one placing in the NZ Thoroughbred Breeders' Stakes last season as well, the only way she can upgrade her value is a group one victory, and the Zabeel Classic will be her last chance to achieve that before retirement to the broodmare paddock.
"It's a tough ask against Xcellent and some of those other horses," said Sargent.
"But her chances are better if it rains. She would like some cut in the ground more than some of those others."
- NZPA
