Mark Zahra, one of the most reliable jockeys in Group 1 races, will need to produce something special when he partners Ostraka in the Oakleigh Plate (1100m) at Caulfield on Saturday.

Ostraka has drawn barrier 17 in the 17-horse field, making his Victorian debut an even greater challenge.

Ostraka’s Melbourne Preparation

Trained by Annabel Neasham and Rob Archibald, Ostraka has been in Melbourne for the past couple of weeks, adjusting to his new surroundings ahead of his first Group 1 attempt.

After trialing in Sydney on January 30, the gelding traveled south, where he finished second to I Wish I Win in a Pakenham 1000m jump-out on February 11.

To enhance his preparation, Ostraka also had a gallop at Caulfield on Tuesday.

“It wasn’t about breaking records—just a comfortable workout,” Archibald said.

“Caulfield can be tricky for first-time runners, so the session was crucial for him to familiarize himself with the track. It also gave Mark another chance to get a feel for him ahead of Saturday.”

Confidence in His Return

Archibald is optimistic about Ostraka’s condition, believing the Pakenham jump-out showed he has returned in strong form.

“You never know until race day, but he’s ticked every box so far,” he said.

“He looks sharp, his work has been solid, and we’re excited to see him perform.”

The Oakleigh Plate was selected as the ideal race to test Ostraka under handicap conditions at the highest level.

Focusing on Sprints This Campaign

Archibald confirmed that Ostraka will be kept to sprint distances this preparation after finishing unplaced in last November’s Golden Eagle (1500m) at Rosehill.

“The prize money in the Golden Eagle was tempting after his Silver Eagle win,” he admitted.

“This time, we’ll keep him sharp and take things one race at a time.”

Despite the wide draw, Zahra’s experience and Ostraka’s preparation give the stable hope for a big performance in Saturday’s Group 1 sprint.