Zed Em wins another feature steeplechase

Zed Em has claimed another feature jumps win, taking out the Thackeray Steeple at Warrnambool.

Trained by Patrick Payne, Zed Em was having his first start on Sunday since he was narrowly defeated in the Australian Steeplechase on May 27.

Before that second, Zed Em won the Von Doussa Steeplechase at Oakbank and the Brierly Steeplechase at Warrnambool.

With Brad McLean aboard, Zed Em raced on the speed and had 1-1/2 lengths to spare on I’ll’ava’alf who led into the last jump of the 3450m-race.

McLean was effusive in his praise of both horse and trainer.

“He is a little ripper,” McLean said told broadcaster Racing.com.

“His form this year has been outstanding and what can you say about Patrick Payne?

“He was a champion in the saddle and he is doing a marvellous job with his team of horses as well, especially the jumpers.

“He is a great man to ride for. He does his homework and he makes sure you are on the job.

“We certainly got the job done today.”