Launching the career of a stakes-class galloper in provincial or midweek grade is usually smart placement, helping owners minimise costs as their horse climbs the ranks.

But for Starlight Stakes (1100m) favourite Zealously, his humble beginnings reflected Peter Snowden’s early assessment — one he has since upgraded.

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

Zealously smashed the Warwick Farm 1000m track record first-up before finishing second in the Group 2 Caulfield Sprint (1000m) behind Rey Magnerio.

He was scratched from The Warra (1000m) last weekend due to a rain-induced track downgrade, but Snowden says the delay hasn’t disrupted him.

“He has been five weeks between runs… But I’m still happy with him. His work was great (Tuesday) morning, and he looks fantastic.”

Should he perform to expectations, Zealously will progress to the Listed Razor Sharp Handicap (1200m) next month, with the Magic Millions Sprint (1200m) also on the radar.