The Phoenix calls have started for freakish talent Barefoot Zulu after two outstanding victories at The Meadows and Sandown Park.
“He’s the fastest dog we’ve had in 20 years,” trainer David Geall said – a big call considering the calibre of greyhounds that have passed through his kennel in recent times.
Barefoot Zulu recorded the third-fastest time ever over the 525 metres at The Meadows, behind Aston Rupee and Allen Deed, stopping the clock at 29.40 seconds.
“I was a little surprised by the time, but the owners weren’t in the slightest,” Geall said.
“John Thompson said to me the dog has freakish ability.”
He backed up that performance last night at Sandown with a run that needs to be seen to be believed.
Barefoot Zulu had no right to win this one from box eight at Sandown on Thursday night.
“At the 700-metre boxes I was convinced he wasn’t going to win, but then he took off – he’s a very exciting dog.”
After two commanding wins at The Meadows and Sandown, the team behind Barefoot Zulu now await the Topgun panel’s decision on whether he secures a start in the Group 1 Invitational on the opening night of the Sportsbet Dream Chasers Festival.
Barefoot Zulu is expected to contest a Melbourne Cup Prelude at Sandown Park on Thursday night, with genuine hopes he will feature prominently throughout the festival.
“He sends goosebumps through you – we’re very fortunate he’s come along at the right time with the big races just around the corner,” Geall said.
“We’ve already received calls about him for The Phoenix, so we’re hopeful he’ll make the field.”
“He’s a strong dog that can go from any box and that’s exactly what you want.”
Cumbria Jack was the first greyhound officially locked in for a Phoenix slot, with Metro Jetting making the announcement earlier this week.
