The Topgun at The Meadows has always belonged to the elite. And few conditioners in Australian greyhound racing have defined this race like Jason and Seona Thompson.

Between them, the Thompson kennel has already claimed five Topgun titles – a staggering strike rate in one of the most selective and prestigious invitational races we have on offer.

On Saturday night, as the Sportsbet Dream Chasers Festival launches for 2025, they return again with Flying Zulu primed and ready to strike from box eight.

For Jason Thompson, the Topgun is its own art form.

“I really enjoy getting them ready and firing for a race like this,” Thompson said.

“It’s different to heat and final preparation. If they’re going well enough, you generally have a feel earlier that they’ll be in the race before fields are even drawn.”

Flying Zulu comes into the race following an unlucky Cranbourne Cup run. But Thompson said the dog pulled up perfectly and returns to The Meadows – a track he handles exceptionally well.

“He has won big races from out wide and he goes well at The Meadows.”

When the Thompsons purchased Flying Zulu originally, they never imagined he would produce the career he has delivered.

“Just getting into the race is a huge achievement for him. He has competed at the highest level consistently for such a long period.”

For racing fans watching on Racing.com this Saturday night, Thompson summed it up perfectly:

“He gives his all. Regardless of draw. Regardless of conditions. He just keeps trying.”

The Thompson kennel is also represented in the Group 1 Topgun Stayers with Ayden’s Warrior.

Dream Chasers launches Saturday night at The Meadows – and this is exactly the type of storyline the festival was built for.