Short journey to Sydney Cup no issue for Zardozi

Despite her preparation not following the traditional script, Godolphin is confident Zardozi is ready to contend in Saturday’s $5 million Sydney Cup.

Most of her opponents have had recent runs over extended distances, but Zardozi heads into the race off a strong placing in the Australian Cup (2000m).

Assistant trainer Darren Beadman is convinced she’ll relish the step back to two miles, a trip she handled with distinction in the Melbourne Cup last November, finishing fourth.

“She’s had the benefit of a run over the two miles in the Melbourne Cup and it was an outstanding performance to run fourth,” Beadman said.

“She probably hasn’t had the traditional lead-up races to run in the Sydney Cup but she did show a hint of dourness in her last couple of runs, hence the reason James and the team have elected to go this way with her.

“We know she can run a good, strong two miles and if there is a bit of rain around that will certainly suit her. She’s a very tough mare.”

Trainer James Cummings previously deviated from the norm by starting Zardozi in the Empire Rose Stakes just three days prior to the Melbourne Cup. Even then, she had already been tested at 2400m.

Drawn in gate three, Zardozi will be ridden by Sydney Cup expert Kerrin McEvoy in a capacity field of 20 stayers.

All eyes will be on Alalcance, who has dominated betting markets after her brilliant display in the Chairman’s Handicap and now enters as the likely favourite for Waterhouse and Bott.

Meanwhile, topweight Duke De Sessa (56.5kg) will be aiming to join a rare club of recent heavyweights to take out the Sydney Cup, a feat only two horses have managed since 1998.