Trainer Mick Price will find out just how good Zambardo is when the emerging galloper faces Horse of the Year Via Sistina in the Champions Stakes (2000m) at Flemington on Saturday.
Zambardo was set to start favourite in a benchmark 90 on Oaks Day, but Price and co-trainer Michael Kent Jnr opted for the Group 1 challenge instead.
“I think we can go back to a benchmark 90 any time,” Price said. “This is his sixth run this prep and he’s had a very good prep. I wanted better horses in front of him.”
Price plans to ride the gelding quietly, hoping to see him finish strongly against tougher opposition.
Zambardo, a multiple winner this campaign, faces a stiff test under weight-for-age conditions, conceding 1.5kg to dual Cox Plate winner Via Sistina.
Jamie Melham takes the ride from barrier nine, with stablemate Golden Path also contesting the race.