Aaron Purcell has urged punters, who supported Zebulon in the $140,000 March Stakes over 1400 metres at Flemington on Saturday, not to drop off the seven-year-old after the Warrnambool galloper ran fourth behind Widgee Turf.
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Zebulon started from barrier two in the 14-horse field and that never helped his chances, according to south-west trainer Purcell.
"I tried to warn punters before the race Zebulon doesn't like drawing inside barriers," he said.
"He just could not get out at a vital time. Luke Currie had to cut across heels to get into the race in the last 200 metres.
"It was a very good run in a strong field. I'm sure the race will provide a strong form guide going forward for punters."
Zebulon's next start may be in the $150,000 Golden Mile in Bendigo on March 30.
"The Golden Mile looks an ideal race for him," Purcell said.
"It's not going to be an easy race to win but our chances will be improved if we draw a wide barrier.
"I think he'll appreciate the 1600 metres of the Golden Mile."
Zebulon's stablemate Von Mystic ran eighth in the $150,000 Grand Mile Final for Purcell.
"I thought Von Mystic was honest," he said.
"Von Mystic finished was five lengths behind the winner Prometheus but Prometheus won the race but three lengths so the effort of Von Mystic was not too bad."
Von Mystic had won two of his three prior runs before Saturday's effort.
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