Zambardo's Cox Plate pathway continues through Feehan Stakes
The Mick Price and Michael Kent Jnr stable is targeting two significant 2000m Group 1 races at Flemington with their horse Zambardo.
The Cox Plate, which is being held at a different venue this year due to renovations at Moonee Valley, on October 24, and the Champions Stakes, held a fortnight later, are races that Price has earmarked.
Zambardo's only previous appearance at Flemington was in last year's Champions Stakes during Melbourne Cup week, where he ran behind Via Sistina.
Price stated that the gelding's campaign in Sydney and Brisbane during the autumn and winter did not meet expectations.
After finishing in the middle of the pack at Randwick and Gosford, Zambardo performed well on his preferred wet track at Rosehill, finishing second in the Lord Mayors Cup, before heading to Brisbane.
Competing in the Q22 at Eagle Farm, Zambardo was unable to adapt to the slow pace, finishing behind only two other horses.
Following a break in the warmer climate of Queensland, Zambardo made a strong return, finishing third over 1500m at Sandown on September 5. He is now set to compete at Caulfield on Sunday in the Group 2 Feehan Stakes (1600m) to advance his claims for the Cox Plate.
Price mentioned that Zambardo would then contest the 'Globe Stakes' (the Might And Power) at Caulfield on October 10, with the Cox Plate being the ultimate goal.
"He was great first-up," Price shared.
"It was what I expected off his trial after his little winter sojourn wasn't so successful.
"I'm putting a circle around the 2000 metres at Flemington where he will be very well suited, especially if he gets his toe in the ground.
"He might not be good enough, but I don't think it will be a huge field, and there are no internationals coming.
"One thing is, he'll be cherry on the day."
In past seasons, the Feehan Stakes has often seen small fields, with Pride Of Jenni dominating the past two renewals.
Pride Of Jenni is again entered for Sunday's race, facing just five opponents, including Mr Brightside and Treasurethe Moment, who have both secured second place behind the mare in the last two editions.
Consider the latest racing odds available at online bookmakers for this exciting race.
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