While the Melbourne Cup remains a distant prospect, Ciaron Maher’s team is hopeful of success with new arrival Zarakem, a French import. The eight-year-old stallion, who ran in the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, is being eyed for a path toward spring staying handicaps.

Zarakem arrives with an impressive record of six wins and one placing from 14 starts, including a sixth-place finish in the Group 1 Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe (2400m) at Longchamp in October. He will make his debut for Maher in the Group 1 Verry Elleegant Stakes (1600m) at Randwick on Saturday.

“He’s been over for a few months now, but this is the kick-off point,” said assistant trainer Jack Turnbull. “His form is over further, and hopefully, he can reproduce that off the plane.”

While there are no commitments yet for the Group 1 Melbourne Cup (3200m), where Maher won in 2022 with Gold Trip, the team is closely monitoring Zarakem’s progress for larger goals later in the year.

“His trackwork has been fine, and he’s sound, which is a big aspect,” Turnbull added.

Zarakem is currently priced at $31, with Via Sistina the $1.85 favourite.

Additionally, Maher has King Valley in the Toyota Forklifts Handicap (2000m) at Randwick, where he’ll look to improve on a recent second at Flemington. Turnbull is confident King Valley’s solid preparation will lead to further success. If victorious, King Valley’s rating will rise, opening up future staying race opportunities.