Racing: Zavite may have tilt at cup

Passchendaele is the Auckland Cup favourite. Photo / Supplied

No Australians for the $2.2 million Telecom Derby, but there looks a strong chance Zavite might be at Ellerslie for the $1 million Stella Artois Auckland Cup on March 10.

Caulfield trainer Anthony Cummings told Auckland Racing Club racing manager Andrew Castles yesterday he was considering a trip to New Zealand.

Zavite, by Zabeel from the American mare Miss Vita, is a million-dollar earner.

He hasn't won a race since taking the A$400,000 3200m Adelaide Cup in March last year, but has run a few good races in strong company.

He finished only seventh in the Hobart Cup at his last start on February 8, but he didn't get all favours.

"Anthony said this morning that he got flattened in Hobart and returned home a bit battered and bruised," said Castles.

"From what he was saying the horse looks a slightly better than 50-50 chance of making the trip."

Zavite is quoted by the TAB as a $26 chance in the Auckland Cup, but would shorten considerably if the trip to Auckland was confirmed.

Passchendaele remains the $3 Auckland Cup favourite from Six O'Clock News and Heza Karma Karzi on $6, Everbright on $8 and Spin Around on $10.