Zardozi gets another look at Caulfield
The Godolphin stable is hopeful that a step up in distance at Caulfield will work in Zardozi’s favor as she continues her preparation for her main autumn target at Flemington.
The James Cummings-trained mare had a track gallop at Caulfield on Tuesday morning in the lead-up to the Group 2 Peter Young Stakes (1800m) on Saturday, which serves as a stepping stone to the Group 1 Australian Cup (2000m) two weeks later.
Zardozi has raced at Caulfield only once before, finishing fourth behind Duke De Sessa in last year’s Caulfield Cup (2400m).
Nacim Dilmi, who oversees James Cummings’ Melbourne stable, admitted that while the mare prefers the open track at Flemington, Saturday’s race is an important stepping stone toward her grand final, the Australian Cup.
“She worked over 1200 metres, and it was nice work. She pulled up well, and her regular rider Camille was pleased with her effort,” Dilmi said.
“This weekend isn’t her grand final, but if she puts in a solid performance, we’ll be in a good position heading into the next run in two weeks.”
“Caulfield may not be her most suitable track, but she still ran well in the Caulfield Cup, so we’re happy with her progress.”
Zardozi will be third-up for the preparation, having resumed in Sydney before finishing third in the Group 2 Blamey Stakes (1600m) at Flemington on March 1.
“Her last run at Flemington was strong,” Dilmi said.
“She finished off well, which suggests she is exactly where we want her to be as she steps up in distance toward the Australian Cup.
“Jamie Melham was very pleased with her and noted that she has come back in excellent form following a strong spring campaign.
“She wasn’t far away in the Melbourne Cup, and she seems to be building well this preparation.”
A total of 13 horses have been nominated for the Peter Young Stakes, including Pride Of Jenni, who has not raced since experiencing a bleeding attack in the Group 1 Champions Mile (1600m) at Flemington last November.
The final field and barrier draw will be confirmed on Wednesday.
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