Keayang Zahara sidelined for longer than expected

CHAMPION harness racing mare Keayang Zahara (Volstead) will be sidelined longer than first thought.

Co-trainer Paddy Lee said a recent scan revealed the five-year-old’s setback was a little more serious.

“I don’t think she’ll be ready for the Great Southern Star now,” he said.

“The scan showed we’ll need to give her a bit more time than the six to eight weeks we initially thought.”

Keayang Zahara was found to have a ligament strain two weeks ago.

It continues a frustrating two years for the mare, who has won 28 of just 29 starts.

She raced just seven times last year for six wins and a second and has only managed eight starts for as many wins this year.

It leaves Team Lee with just two trotters being aimed at the Group 1 Bill Collins Sprint on October 17.

Jilliby Ballerini, who ran second to Keayang Zahara in the race last year, will also be missing as she recovers from a hoof issue.

Keayang Stuka and Keayang Chucky have also been ruled out.

“(Jilliby) Dreamlover and Imperial Monarch are the two we’re setting for it,” Lee said.

And Jilliby Dreamlover, who ran second to Gatesys Gem in a Vicbred heat last night, remains the stable’s only contender for an NZ raid in November.

By Adam Hamilton for Harness Racing Australia