Wet weather in Melbourne has lifted the spirits of trainers Mick Price and Michael Kent Jnr ahead of Saturday’s Group 2 Zipping Classic (2400m) at Caulfield.

The stable’s stayer Hezashocka thrives on rain-affected ground and has struggled on dry tracks. A heavy rain band arrived just as acceptances were declared on Wednesday, giving connections renewed optimism.

“He hasn’t won for a while and he’s had something like 20 starts on good ground for no result,” Price said. “He needs to get his toe in… it’s a $750,000 race, so I’ll probably send him around because he’s in good order.”

Hezashocka was unplaced in the Might And Power and Bendigo Cup on firm tracks but performs best with give, last winning on a soft surface in Brisbane.

If he runs well, the Listed Pakenham Cup (2500m) on December 13 is likely next. “It’s been racing like a heavy track, so that would suit him,” Price said.