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Randwick trainer John O’Shea will attempt to gain entry into next year’s Big Dance when Pizarro lines up as one of the key contenders in Sunday’s Campbell Petroleum Distributors Club Goulburn Cup (1400m).
Lining up for his fourth run back from a spell, Pizarro finished fourth at Randwick two starts ago with that being either side of seventh placings at the same track.
"He hasn't been in the placings this preparation but all his runs have been good," said O'Shea .
"I'm really happy with the way he's progressing and the Goulburn Cup looks to be a nice race for him at this stage of his campaign."
Pizarro is a three-time winner from 19 starts, and O'Shea is confident the 1400m of the Goulburn Cup will be right up his alley.
"It's a sizeable field so I'd expect there should be a genuine tempo which will suit him," O'Shea said.
"He's drawn a little wide but should be able to slot in with some cover and Zac [Lloyd] should give him his chance to hit the line.
"It would be nice to win at Goulburn and have him eligible for the Big Dance next year. That will give us plenty of time to plot a path to that race."
O'Shea will also combine with Lloyd when first starter Egyptologist lines up in the Rec & Shec Equine Centres Showcase Maiden Handicap (1600m).
"He's had a couple of recent trials to prepare for his debut and I'd expect him to run well," said O'Shea.
Local trainer Tim Martin will have two strong chances in the Champion Thoroughbreds Country Boosted Maiden Showcase Plate (1200m).
"Sheetice is knocking on the door for a win," said Martin.
"He's had four second placings from seven starts and his latest run on the Kensington track was very good.
"He's been gelded since his last start and he's come through that very well so everything is pointing to a good showing."
Martin will also start Big Ray against Sheetice, and he doesn't think there is much between them.
"Big Ray is backing up after a good fourth at Queanbeyan last Sunday and he's going well enough to give plenty of cheek," Martin said.
