The Godolphin team is confident that an increased distance at Caulfield will play to Zardozi’s strengths as she builds towards her ultimate autumn goal at Flemington.
The James Cummings-trained mare had a gallop at Caulfield on Tuesday morning to prepare for the Group 2 Peter Young Stakes (1800m) on Saturday, a key step toward the Group 1 Australian Cup (2000m) two weeks later.
Zardozi has only competed at Caulfield once before, finishing fourth to Duke De Sessa in last year’s Caulfield Cup (2400m).
Nacim Dilmi, who manages the Melbourne stable for James Cummings, admitted that while Zardozi is best suited to the wider spaces of Flemington, Saturday’s contest serves as a crucial lead-up to her primary target, the Australian Cup.
“She worked over 1200 metres. It was good work, and she pulled up well afterward. Her regular rider Camille was very happy with her,” Dilmi said.
“This race isn’t her grand final, but a strong performance will set her up perfectly for her next run in two weeks.”
“Caulfield might not be her best track, but she still performed well in the Caulfield Cup, so we’re happy with where she’s at.”
Now third-up for the campaign, Zardozi resumed in Sydney before finishing third in the Group 2 Blamey Stakes (1600m) at Flemington on March 1.
“Her Flemington run last start was encouraging,” Dilmi said.
“She hit the line well, which is a good sign as she moves up in trip towards the Australian Cup.
“Jamie Melham was very pleased with her run and noted that she has returned in fantastic shape after an impressive spring campaign.
“She wasn’t far off in the Melbourne Cup, and this preparation is coming along well.”
Thirteen horses have been nominated for the Peter Young Stakes, including Pride Of Jenni, who has not raced since a bleeding episode in the Group 1 Champions Mile (1600m) at Flemington last November.
The final field and barrier draw will be announced on Wednesday.