Grand Zulu Hopes for the Winners Circle

Grand Zulu Hopes for the Winners Circle

It was smiles and celebration all around at the 2004 Group One BMW racing event, which was held at Rosehill, when the then three-year old Grand Zulu crossed the finish line in remarkable form. For trainer, Gwenda Markwell and Grand Zulu’s owner, Hong Kong based David Choy, it was a magnificent victory and a wonderful achievement for the entire team. But it was the last time that winning celebrations were experienced in the Grand Zulu camp.

Gwenda Markwell always knew that the ultimate dream for David Choy was to race Grand Zulu in Hong Kong. After his win in the BMW, Grand Zulu was shipped home with Choy and two Australian trainers, David Hall and John Size. Unfortunately, no matter how much they tried to settle him in his new surroundings, he was not been able to get back his winning performance. After taking part in the Premier Cup in 2005, he was vetted and was found to have mucopus and blood in his trachea. David Choy made the decision that Grand Zulu had had enough and returned him to Australia.

Grand Zulu resumed his horse racing career in 2006 at the Markwell’s Kembala Grange Stables. With the training and recovery time he has had, it seems that there is a good chance for him to perform well in the Group Two PJ O’Shea Stakes on Saturday, the 31st of May 2008, which is taking place at Eagle Farm. Now, as a seven year old, it is hoped his experience as a veteran in the racing industry will assist him during the PJ O’Shea Stakes. Even though his last four racing events were not too spectacular in regard to placing, the Markwell’s Stables are pleased that he has run soundly in every event.

All eyes and hopes will be on Grand Zulu on Saturday, and many are rooting for him. Fans and horse racing supporters are hopeful to see this determined and courageous horse back in the winner’s circle after a four year absence. The future for Grand Zulu is undetermined at present, as trainers are taking it one race at a time. But for those who love him and work with him, he is and always will be a champion.