Last to first for Zahrann in King George V Cup Ben Coen produced the Johnny Murtagh trained Zahrann from off the pace to win the King George V Cup (Listed Race) at Leopardstown. Just touched off on his racecourse debut at Navan in April, the Night Of Thunder colt easily won his maiden at Cork last month. Taking a step up in both class and trip here, the 5/2 chance relished the extra yardage, as he ran out an impressive two-and-a-quarter-length winner. Held up in rear, Coen had still to pass a rival as Rock Of Cashel led the runners into the home straight. Arouet came through to lead over a furlong out but was soon headed by Zahrann who kept on strongly inside the final 150 yards to win going away. Johnny Murtagh said: “He came out of Cork really well and we were happy coming here today. “We thought a mile and a half help him as well. He’s not a slow horse but he’s learning all the time. “He’s going the right way and has put on weight from his last run so he’s thriving. “The King Edward VII over a mile and a half at Ascot could be a possibility depending on how he comes out of this race.” Additional reporting by Alan Magee.
