Take two for Zealously in the 2025 Starlight Stakes at Rosehill

Beginning a stakes-bound horse in lower-grade provincial or midweek races can be a strategic move, helping build confidence while owners avoid unnecessary costs.

But for Starlight Stakes favourite Zealously, his low-key debut season simply mirrored trainer Peter Snowden’s early expectations—expectations that quickly shifted as the sprinter continued to elevate.

“To be honest, I placed him where I thought he was at, but he just keeps improving and improving,” Snowden said.

“Last preparation he took a big leap. He ran fourth to Private Harry in the Sunlight and he ran very well.

“He came back and won again after that and I thought, you’re a stakes horse now.”

Zealously returned with a blistering record-setting performance over 1000m at Warwick Farm before a strong placing behind Rey Magnerio in the Group 2 Caulfield Sprint (1000m).

He was expected to run in The Warra (1000m) last weekend, but deteriorating weather conditions saw the race downgraded, prompting a late withdrawal.

Despite the enforced break, Snowden says the gelding remains in perfect order for Saturday’s Starlight Stakes (1100m).

“He has been five weeks between runs, and he needs to get back to the races,” Snowden said.

“Normally, I would have definitely barrier trialled him in between but now that this has happened, it limits what you can do.

“But I’m still happy with him. His work was great (Tuesday) morning, and he looks fantastic. I’m not worried about his condition or on him getting away from me at all.”

If he performs as expected, Zealously will head to the Listed Razor Sharp Handicap (1200m), with the Magic Millions Sprint (1200m) sitting on the radar beyond that.

If you're planning a bet on the Starlight Stakes, take a look at the best Australian betting sites to secure top value.