Trainer Mick Price is ready to discover exactly where Zambardo belongs in the pecking order when he goes head-to-head with champion mare Via Sistina in the Champions Stakes (2000m) at Flemington.
Zambardo had been nominated for a far easier Benchmark 90 on Oaks Day, but Price and co-trainer Michael Kent Jr decided to test him at the top.
“We could run him in easier races any time,” Price said.
“He’s deep into his preparation now. I wanted better horses in front of him to chase.”
Price has instructed jockey Jamie Melham to ride the gelding quietly.
“When he gets there too soon, he switches off. We’ll ride him cold and let him reel off late,” he said.
Zambardo has been a strong improver this campaign with wins at Sandown, Sale and Pakenham, and a Benchmark 78 victory at Caulfield over the same trip he faces here.
But weight-for-age means he must give away 1.5kg to Via Sistina, who arrives off a brilliant second consecutive Cox Plate success.
“On ratings, he’s entitled to start where he will in the market,” Price admitted.
“But if he can run a place and lift his figure, it shapes his autumn perfectly.”
Melham, fresh from winning the Melbourne Cup, jumps from barrier nine.
Golden Path also backs up from a strong second in the Crystal Mile.
“He’s honest, he’s going well, and from the draw he’ll get his chance,” Price said.
To bet on the Champions Stakes, see the Australian betting sites list.