Champion trainer Chris Waller leads the charge with 14 first acceptances, with a host of them showcasing their credentials at Flemington this morning. Headlining the group is Via Sistina, the favourite for Saturday’s Group 1 TAB Turnbull Stakes, who worked alongside stablemates Buckaroo, Aeliana and last year’s Cup runner Land Legend.
A strong contingent of international horses have declared their intention to run in this year’s race with 11 horses still among the nominations. History shows Ireland has been the dominant force for international contenders, producing more Lexus Melbourne Cup winners than any other nation. Irish trainer Joseph O’Brien, already a two-time Cup winner, returns with dual chances Goodie Two Shoes and current favourite Al Riffa, who was a dominant winner of the Irish St Leger.
The first shipment of international horses arrived in Melbourne across the weekend, including Absurde (Willie Mullins, Ireland), Golden Snap (Katsunori Tanaka, Japan), Meydaan (Simon & Ed Crisford, England), Onesmoothoperator (Brian Ellison, England), and Presage Nocturne (Alessandro Botti, France).
Golden Ticket winner Deakin, who fought bravely to the line to secure the Lexus Roy Higgins, has accepted for this year’s Cup and has nominated for this weekend at Flemington. Joining him is American contender Parchment Party, who arrived in Newmarket yesterday to begin his pre-export quarantine, and Revelare, who booked his place with victory in the Lexus Archer Stakes.
