Stable foreman James Cummings has identified dangers from more than one angle as Norzita tries to complete a rare double for a three-year-old filly in the $600,000 Coolmore Classic.
Assistant to his legendary grandfather Bart, Cummings says the race's recent history, worthy opposition from the older brigade and the inclusion of emerging stars from within her own age group, offer a serious test for Norzita.
Norzita has been the best-backed Coolmore runner since acceptance time, so much so she shares top billing at $5.50.
She will be trying to emulate Bounding Away as the winner of the Flight Stakes and Coolmore Classic in the same season.
Cummings jnr has not doubt it can be done again but he is well aware of the obstacles in front of a filly who, at her most recent start, had her colours lowered as an odds-on favourite at Flemington by Coolmore rival Flying Snitzel.
"We were a little bit critical of the firmness of the track (at Flemington) but in saying that Flying Snitzel went extremely well and you've got to be wary of her again," he said.
"It's going to be a matter of turning the tables on her and then there's plenty of other horses to hold off too.
"When you look past the three-year-olds you've still got older mares like Streama and Appearance that have been getting to the line without winning."
Norzita is one of five three-year-old fillies taking on mares in a field that has been reduced to 14 starters due to the scratching of Longport.
Tuesday Joy (2007) are Typhoon Tracy (2009) are recent winners for the age group but it was a task too hard for the Cummings-trained Faint Perfume, one of the favourites in 2010 before her ninth-placed finish.
"Two of the three-year-olds this year are Group One winners but the fillies have found it pretty hard to win lately," Cummings jnr said.
Norzita is joint favourite with Dear Demi after Steps In Time eased to $6.50.
New Zealand mare Zurella has come in for support at long odds and is a $26 chance.