Zeus poised for first start back on home soil

He’s competed extensively overseas during the past year or so, but Aldebaran Zeus (Muscle Hill) is back and ready to make an impact on home soil.

With the long-term goal being the Inter Dominion carnival in New South Wales, connections of the multiple Group 1-winning trotter are looking forward to his first-up harness racing assignment at Melton on June 1.

“He had his first quiet trial at Bacchus Marsh on Saturday and will trial again at Bendigo next Monday,” trainer Brent Lilley said.

“He’s working up good and heading in the right direction.”

Aldebaran Zeus campaigned in New Zealand through April and May last year before heading to the United States for the MGM Yonkers International Trot in New York, where he finished fifth. The horse stayed there for six more winless runs and was brought home to Victoria in January.

The son of Muscle Hill has won 18 of 55 starts, including the Group 1 Hammerhead Mile at Menangle in March 2023 when he defeated champion Just Believe.

His last Victorian start was a month later when he was beaten as a short-priced favourite in the Uncle Petrika Trotters Free For All at Melton.

by Tim O’Connor, for HRV