The 8yr-old will be seeking back-to-back victories in the 1800m race and a second feature-race success at this year's Grand National carnival.
Dez will again square off with Platinum Command and Elfee, who chased him home when he won last year's Winter Classic.
He will also have to master classy fellow North Islander Rosewood, the mare he nosed out in a thrilling finish in last weekend's Winter Cup.
Trainer Simon Wilson said Dez had recovered well after his battle with Rosewood to win the group 3 feature for North Canterbury rider Chris Johnson.
"He's done well since Saturday. He's bright and is eating and working well, so that's all I can ask, really.
"He ran a tough race. Chris did a great job on him and he ran strongly to the line."
The step up from 1600m to 1800m is not the only change for Dez today. His 59.5kg weight means he meets Rosewood 3kg worse off than he did a week ago.
"It's a totally different race this weekend being 1800m and we have got more weight," Wilson said.
"It's a good field and there are a few talented winter horses on lighter weights.
"Rosewood is a good horse, as well - she's a very tough mare."
Dez opened the $2.50 favourite and Rosewood was rated the $3 second favourite.
Last year's placegetters, Platinum Command and Elfee, will start at long odds.
Elfee opened at $19 following her ordinary run for ninth in the Winter Cup.
Platinum Command, who won the Winter Cup last year,
has struggled to recapture her form and ran last on the opening day of the carnival in rating 82 company over 1500m.
