Count Zero causes Grand Annual boilover
Count Zero’s stunning turnaround in the 5500-metre Grand Annual Steeplechase was nothing short of remarkable at Warrnambool.
Just two days after a dismal 37-length defeat in the Brierly Steeplechase, the resilient gelding surged to victory, securing trainer Symon Wilde his third triumph in the prestigious race and jockey Darryl Horner Jnr his first.
2024 Grand Annual Steeplechase Replay – Count Zero
Reflecting on the unexpected victory, Horner Jnr dismissed notions of fatigue from Tuesday’s race, emphasising Count Zero’s late surge.
“He traveled strongly late,” Horner Jnr asserted, justifying his decision to allow the horse to finish despite the setback.
The journey to victory was not without its challenges. Count Zero, purchased for a modest $22,000 in 2016, struggled initially, taking five starts to break his maiden.
However, under Wilde’s guidance, the son of Zed steadily improved, culminating in a memorable win at the 2020 Jericho Cup.
Despite his success on the flat, Count Zero had yet to test his mettle over jumps due to reluctance from a fraction of the ownership group.
It wasn’t until 2022 that he began his jumping career, gradually notching wins in hurdle and steeplechase events.
Ahead of the Grand Annual, Horner Jnr devised a strategy to reignite Count Zero’s competitive spirit.
“Put him up the front like usual, I’ll kick him hard out the gates,” he proposed.
The plan paid off handsomely, with Count Zero delivering flawless jumps throughout the rigorous 33-obstacle course.
In a thrilling finale, Count Zero engaged in a neck-and-neck battle with Andrew Bobbin’s Bell Ex One, ultimately crossing the line with a half-head advantage.
The victory not only added to Count Zero’s impressive record of 10 wins from 59 starts but also boosted his prizemoney to a remarkable $705,000.
For Wilde, the win marked the culmination of a successful hometown carnival, with four winners and seven placings.
“I love this race,” Wilde expressed, revelling in the excitement of the carnival atmosphere.
“It just makes these carnivals.”