It is that time of year – the Melbourne Cup – when a line-up of brave stayers faces off in the famous Flemington Race 7 on the first Tuesday of November in Australia’s greatest thoroughbred showdown.

At 3:00pm (AEDT) three of the most exciting minutes of the year will light up headquarters for the 164th running of the time-honoured Group 1 $8.56 million Lexus Melbourne Cup (3200m).

History will be made, some dreams will come true, and others will be dashed when the ‘Race That Stops a Nation’ is run and won for another year at headquarters.

It is the world’s richest and best handicap horse race, and we may have a less than vintage field assembled but there’s a great betting race taking place as we prepare to crown the next Melbourne Cup winner.

From the inaugural and dual champion Archer (1861-62) to the historic Makybe Diva three-peat (2003-5), many of the biggest turf stars have won the trophy.

This year we have 19 officially locally trained contenders plus five international raiders out to steal the show.

Four are are Aussie bred including Golden Ticket holding mare The Map who secured her spot in the Melbourne Cup field via a win in the Andrew Ramsden back in May.

We should have a good track with the weather in Melbourne holding for the public holiday there making for perfect conditions!

So, will the Irish-trained topweight Vauban salute for the punters as the new favourite after his unplaced efforts last year?

Can one-time favourite Buckaroo salute for Chris Waller and prove his two-mile credentials?

Will jockey Mark Zahra secure his third straight Melbourne Cup victory on as many horses in as many years when riding the Ciaron Maher-trained Circle Of Fire?

Or, can the raiders get the job done with the likes of Geelong and Bendigo Cup winners Onesmoothoperator and Sea King coming off impressive victories?

All will be revealed soon enough!

In the meantime, read on below for the ultimate 2024 Melbourne Cup preview and form guide for all 23 remaining horses post the withdrawal of Athabascan on Monday evening.

1. VAUBAN (FR) (10)

• Breeding: by GALIWAY (GB) from WALDFEST (GB)
• Age/Gender: 7YO gelding
• Trainers: Mr Willie Mullins (Co. Carlow (IRE))
• Jockey: William Buick
• Weight: 55.5kg (at time of publish) 
• Barrier: 10
• Owners: Mrs S Ricci
• Previous Melbourne Cup Performances: 2023 – 14th beaten 13.35L behind Without A Fight (GB)
• Current Melbourne Cup 2024 Odds*: $6 (at time of publish)

Vauban, a highly anticipated horse with a strong reputation, faced challenges in the 2023 Lexus Melbourne Cup. Despite his owner’s determination and trainer Willie Mullins’s strategic planning, Vauban’s performance fell short of expectations when he finished well behind some 13 lengths beaten as the pre-race favourite. 

Since the 2023 Melbourne Cup, Vauban has participated in several European races, including the Yorkshire Cup and Ascot Gold Cup. Although he showed promise in these key events, he ultimately finished behind other strong contenders. 

With the goal of redemption, Vauban is likely to return to Australia for another attempt at the Melbourne Cup after finally getting back to winning form at York on August 23. 

Atoning for his recent third to the tearaway, Aidan O’Brien-trained Cup hopeful Tower Of London in the Curragh Cup, Vauban was gutsy off a nice William Buick ride relishing the extra distance of the Group 2 Lonsdale Cup (3319m). It was a narrow but convincing win there that put the writing on the wall for another shot at Australia’s best race. 

Premier UK hoop William Buick booked for the ride. 

Dour stayer out for redemption. 

2. BUCKAROO (GB) (20)

• Breeding: by FASTNET ROCK from ROHERYN (IRE)
• Age/Gender: 6YO Gelding
• Trainer: Chris Waller
• Jockey: Joao Moreira 
• Weight: 54.5kg (at time of publish)
• Barrier: 20
• Owners: Mr A Kheir, Qatar Bloodstock Ltd, Mr J A O’Neill, YES Bloodstock, Carty Racing, A K Racing, Mr D Edmonds, Mr B D Nettlefold, Mr T R Maddern, Bromfield Park Pty Ltd
• Current Melbourne Cup 2024 Odds*: $6.50 (at time of publish)
• Latest Start: 2nd beaten 1.25 lengths by Duke De Sessa in the Group 1 Caulfield Cup (2400m) on October 19

Chris Waller looks to have a genuine 2024 Melbourne Cup contender with the imported Buckaroo working his way towards the event and up the betting charts with impressive performances down under.

The six-year-old son of Fastnet Rock has been in Australia since last October and has really come into his own this prep.

He surprised with a win second-up in the Group 2 Chelmsford over a mile before dominating Caulfield’s Group 1 Underwood Stakes with a 3.5 length romp home over a good field with 59kg at WFA.

Second next start just denied on the line by stablemate Via Sistina in Flemington’s Group 1 Turnbull Stakes (2000m) and then went to 2400m in the Caulfield Cup running out of his skin for second to Duke De Sessa (not Melbourne Cup nominated) in the opening leg of the Spring Cups double. 

He may be yet to win over 1800m making the 3200m of the Melbourne Cup a genuine query, but the bookies and fans are happy to take him, and he’s firmed into favourite now with the ‘Magic Man’ Joao Moreira to ride. 

Has to overcome barrier 20 but don’t think it’s as big an issue as some are making out.

Will he get the two miles? The bookies and punters say yes! 

3. CIRCLE OF FIRE (GB) (23)

• Breeding: by ALMANZOR (FR) from FIERY SUNSET (GB)
• Age/Gender: 5YO horse
• Trainer: Ciaron Maher (Cranbourne)
• Jockey: Mark Zahra 
• Weight: 54.5kg (at time of publish)
• Barrier: 23
• Owners: Mr M Johnston, Mrs A J Johnston, Mr T N Porter, Mr H P Sambor, Eleven Royals, Shadwell Farm Racing, The Greene Machine, Mr A S Ingersole, Mr M J Burns, Mr B S David, B R A W Racing, Burning Ring, Mr T A Ginnane, Mr R McClure, Mr B G Noonan, Mr D J O’Connor, Mr G J P Van Ameyden, Mr D J House, Mr W B Keighran, Madica
• Current Melbourne Cup 2024 Odds*: $34 (at time of publish)
• Latest Start: 10th beaten 13.9 lengths by Duke De Sessa in the Group 1 Caulfield Cup (2400m) on October 19

Bred by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, Circle of Fire, a former Epsom Derby prospect trained by Sir Michael Stoute, has found a new lease on life under the care of Ciaron Maher.

After a promising start in England, Circle of Fire made a successful transition to Australia, showcasing his staying ability in the Chairman’s Quality. Star Italian jockey, Andrea Atzeni, then guided the horse to a tough Group 1 Sydney Cup (3200m) victory overcoming a three-deep run throughout to finish on top over the two miles. 

Circle Of Fire relished the distance putting two lengths on them late, albeit with only 51.5kg. He’ll have more on his back in the Flemington equivalent but remains an all-in favourite in 2024 Melbourne Cup odds. 

Did okay when ninth in the Turnbull. Got his chance to improve over further next-up in the Caulfield Cup but was one of the disappointments well out of the money. 

Still think he can improve getting out to two miles so haven’t discounted him just yet! 

Benefits from the booking of Mark Zahra who has ridden the past two Melbourne Cup winners with Gold Trip (2022) and Without A Fight (2023). 

Suffered a nasty blow with the far outside alley (24 into 23). 

Right distance, right trainer, could prove value at the 3200m. 

4. WARP SPEED (JPN) (2)

• Breeding: by DREFONG (USA) from DEEP LOVE (JPN)
• Age/Gender: 6YO horse 
• Trainer: Noboru Takagi (Japan)
• Jockey: Akira Sugawara
• Weight: 54.5kg (at time of publish) 
• Barrier: 2
• Owners: Mr H Yamada
• Current Melbourne Cup 2024 Odds*: $31 (at time of publish)  
• Latest Start: 13th beaten 16.25 lengths by Duke De Sessa in the Group 1 Caulfield Cup (2400m) on October 19

Warp Speed is out to be the first Japanese trained Melbourne Cup winner since Delta Blues (2006) and was ticking plenty of boxes having arrived down under in terrific order.

The class stayer has winning form up to 3000m back home in Japan and was brave in the world-famous Group 1 Tenno Sho over the two miles when fourth behind the very good galloper T O Royal back in April. 

Aussie race fans got their first official look at him down under in the Group 1 Caulfield Cup (2400m) on October 19 and were left somewhat unimpressed.

He had a nice Caulfield hit out in the lead-up to that and pulled up nicely impressing his jockey, Kosi Kawakami. 

Come race day however he couldn’t match the locals and was over 16 lengths off the winner crossing 13th in a real flop. 

Barrier two (in form three) helps his cause. 

Genuine weight-for-age stayer but may not be able to match it in the handicap Cups down under. 

5. KOVALICA (NZ) (16)

• Breeding: by OCEAN PARK (NZ) from VITESSE (NZ)
• Age/Gender: 5YO gelding
• Trainer: Chris Waller (Mount Macedon)
• Jockey: Damian Lane 
• Weight: 53.5kg (at time of publish)
• Barrier: 16
• Owners: Mr N Morgan, Mr D H T Devine
• Current Melbourne Cup 2024 Odds*: $23 (at time of publish)
• Latest Start: 6th beaten 11.8 lengths by Via Sistina in the Group 1 Ladbrokes Cox Plate (2040m) on October 26, 2024 

Kovalica is one of the longer priced of the Waller contingent looking to recapture his form and win for the first time since the 2023 Queensland Derby. 

He was huge last winter and good again in the spring with an Epsom second before things went amiss and he failed to beat home a single runner when 17th in the Golden Eagle. 

Form since has been hit and miss but he has shown glimpses this prep with some eye-catching runs behind good horses including crossing just two lengths off Ceolwulf, who went on to win the King Charles, in this year’s Epsom. 

His Group 2 Hill Stakes second was narrow, and the Cox Plate margin was blown out with his stablemate Via Sistina winning by eight lengths. 

Looking fitter and will improve over further with Damian Lane booked for the ride. 

Will stay but prefer others from the stable. 

6. SHARP ‘N’ SMART (NZ) (14)

• Breeding: by REDWOOD (GB) from QUEEN MARGARET (NZ)
• Age/Gender: 5YO gelding
• Trainers: Graeme & Deborah Rogerson (Flemington)
• Jockey: Michael Dee
• Weight: 53.5kg (at time of publish)
• Barrier: 14
• Owners: Mr G A Rogerson, Mr C A Leishman, Mr T I Bawden, Mr M Butterworth, Mrs M Butterworth, Nz Thoroughbred Holdings Ltd, Mr M B Waddy
• Current Melbourne Cup 2024 Odds*: $81
• Latest Start: 3rd beaten 2.5 lengths by Okita Soushi in the Group 2 Ladbrokes Moonee Valley Gold Cup (2500m) on October 25, 2024

The Kiwis are in with a strong hand in this year’s Melbourne Cup including Sharp ‘N’ Smart at big odds to break his notably winning drought when up to two miles on the first Tuesday of November. 

The Rogerson’s had a good young stayer with this so of Redwood winning a host of elite races here and across the Tasman as a three-year-old including the Group 1 Spring Champion Stakes in 2022 and Group 1 NZ Derby in 2023. 

He was a VRC Derby runner-up but hasn’t won since March last year. 

The now five-year-old was unable to keep in touch with Via Sistina – a subsequent eight-length Cox Plate champion at The Valley – when running a distant 13th in the Turnbull.

Improved under the lights in the Ladbrokes Moonee Valley Gold Cup running 3rd when giving weight away to Okita Soushi.

The two miles should suit, he’s got staying abilities and drops back to 53.5kg. 

Michael Dee picks up the ride chasing his first victory. 

Decent stayer who was a good 3YO looking to recapture form. 

7. JUST FINE (IRE) (12)

• Breeding: by SEA THE STARS (IRE) from BINT ALMATAR (USA)
• Age/Gender: 7yo Bay Gelding
• Trainers: Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott
• Jockey: Jye McNeil
• Weight: 53kg includes 0.5kg penalty (at time of publish)
• Barrier: 12
• Owners: MyRacehorse No. 1, Australian Chinese Jockey Club Racing 7, Mr P L Ward, Mr D R Fleming, Newfan Pty Ltd, Mrs P S Hall, Mr L M Nestadt, EST F P Hume, Mr T Danaher, Mr B Danaher, Mr R I Goldbloom
• Current Melbourne Cup 2024 Odds*: $41 (at time of publish)
• Latest Start: 10th beaten 10.62 lengths by Okita Soushi in the Group 2 Ladbrokes Moonee Valley Gold Cup (2500m) on October 25

The Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott-trained Just Fine has won his way into the Melbourne Cup field via a narrow but impressive victory over Lexus Archer Stakes winner and fellow Melbourne Cup golden ticket holder Point King in the Group 3 The Bart Cummings (2500m) on Turnbull Stakes Day. 

Went around at big odds after a lead-up 10th in the Naturalism (2000m) but relished the extra distance and roomier Flemington track. 

First win for the MyRacehorse syndicated import since his Group 1 The Metrop win 12 months earlier in Sydney. 

Lovely ride by Jordan Childs to get this horse into the ‘Race That Stops a Nation’. 

Didn’t show the same goods at The Valley on the tight circuit under the lights in the Ladbrokes Moonee Valley Gold Cup running dead last (10th) behind Okita Soushi to drift notably. 

Still think he’s a chance though at the roomier Flemington circuit with Jye McNeil booked for the ride. 

Genuine stayer for Waterhouse & Bott that can surprise at a price in the big one. 

8. LAND LEGEND (FR) (17)

• Breeding: by GALILEO (IRE) from LANDIKUSIC (IRE)
• Age/Gender: 5YO gelding
• Trainer: Chris Waller (Flemington)
• Jockey: Zac Purton
• Weight: 53kg includes 1kg penalty (at time of publish)
• Barrier: 17
• Owners: Legend Racing
• Current Melbourne Cup 2024 Odds*: $20 (at time of publish)
• Latest Start: 3rd beaten 6.25 lengths by Duke De Sessa in the Group 1 Caulfield Cup (2400m) on October 19

Land Legend shapes up as a lovely-profiled import for the Waller stable in the Spring Cups down under. 

He won Randwick’s St. Leger (2600m) by a big margin in his Aussie race debut to immediately put his hand up for the majors of the spring. 

Forgotten somewhat after two unplaced runs in August and September but was back in winning form in Sydney’s Group 1 The Metropolitan (2400m) back up in trip. 

Narrowly held out the mare Zardozi there and was only carrying 51kg but it was enough to see him penalised in the Melbourne Cup weights. 

Hong Kong-based Zac Purton is down under for the ride on him firstly in the Caulfield Cup where he shined running a good (albeit distant) third behind Duke De Sessa and Buckaroo to stay in touch with Melbourne Cup betting. 

Think he’ll be a genuine two-miler and could be one to get behind in the current markets on the 3200m Flemington feature. 

Will stay. Another for Waller? 

9. ABSURDE (FR) (6)

• Breeding: by GALIWAY (GB) from WALDFEST (GB)
• Age/Gender: 7YO gelding
• Trainer: Mr Willie Mullins (Co. Carlow (IRE))
• Jockey: Kerrin McEvoy
• Weight: 52.5kg (at time of publish)
• Barrier: 6
• Owners: HOS Syndicate
• Previous Melbourne Cup Performances: 2023 – 7th beaten 5.45L behind Without A Fight (GB)
• Current Melbourne Cup 2024 Odds*: $9.50 (at time of publish)

Absurde was a Golden Ticket contender last year after a barnstorming Ebor win but didn’t quite live up to the hype when five lengths beaten running seventh. 

He looks set to return for a second crack at the world’s richest handicap and is being kept very safe in all-in betting on the Cup after impressing with 61kg to win the Listed Chester Stakes (2916m) recently back home. 

It is a big ask for horses to travel down under on Australia’s biggest day of racing, and Absurde lost few admirers impressing with his manners at the pre-race Melbourne Cup parade. His run was full of merit and this jump racing star will take benefit from the previous trip. 

Will be ridden by three-time winning hoop Kerrin McEvoy. 

Second chance improver.

10. ATHABASCAN (FR) – SCRATCHED

11. KNIGHT’S CHOICE (5)

• Breeding: by EXTREME CHOICE from MIDNIGHT PEARL
• Age/Gender: 5YO Gelding
• Trainers: John Symons & Sheila Laxon (Sunshine Coast)
• Jockey: Robbie Dolan
• Weight: 51.5kg (at time of publish)
• Barrier: 5
• Owners: Mr C A Bain, Mrs K J Waldron, Mr R A Waldron
• Current Melbourne Cup 2024 Odds*: $151 (at time of publish)
• Latest Start: 5th beaten 5.16 lengths by Sea King in the Group 3 Bendigo Cup (2400m) on October 30

One of the rank outsiders in 2024 Melbourne Cup betting, the Sunshine Coast-based Knight’s Choice will be ridden by Robbie Dolan looking to improve on his disappointing Caulfield Cup flop when over 16 lengths beaten. 

This five-year-old son of Extreme Choice hasn’t won a Black-Type race since the Group 3 Winx Guineas as a three-year-old last year and has been first past the post in just one start since. 

Caught the eye in Brisbane over the winter with some good placings including a second behind Fawkner Park in The Q22 but has failed to impress this prep.

He has been racing against the Cup-bound hopes and finishing well back including a last place in the Turnbull in his only Flemington assignment to date. 

Yet to win over further than 2000m and can’t see him finishing close. 

Out of form and out of contention! 

12. OKITA SOUSHI (IRE) (9)

• Breeding: by GALILEO (IRE) from AMICUS
• Age/Gender: 7YO Gelding
• Trainer: Ciaron Maher
• Jockey: Jamie Kah
• Weight: 51kg – includes a 1.0 kg penalty (at time of publish)
• Barrier: 9
• Owners: Mrs A M Saini
• Current Melbourne Cup 2024 Odds*: $12 (at time of publish)
• Latest Start: 1st defeating Serpentine by 0.5 lengths in the Group 2 Moonee Valley Gold Cup (2500m) October 25

Irish-bred Okita Soushi raced into Melbourne Cup calculations with a quality half-length win under the lights at The Valley in the Ladbrokes Moonee Valley Gold Cup over 2500m.

The genuine stayer, now a seven-year-old, was 11th in last year’s Melbourne Cup results off a Caulfield Cup 12th in his opening two Australian starts. 

He is now trained by master horseman Maher, has settled into his Aussie surrounds now and is working well towards a second shot at the 3200m classic. 

The former Joseph O’Brien-trained gelding is proven over the two miles, was runner-up in the Herbert Power two back, and the Moonee Valley victory has him on track as a lightweight hope. 

The Moonee Valley Gold Cup – Melbourne Cup double hasn’t been completed since Kingston Rule (1990) but the bookies have shortened Okita Soushi’s all-in quote dramatically to be the next.

Safely inside the Top 24 now with a 1kg penalty carrying 51kg. 

Jamie Kah picked up the ride after her previous booking, Point King, was an early withdrawal. 

Genuine two-mile horse on the improve ahead of his second shot!

13. ONESMOOTHOPERATOR (USA) (11)

• Breeding: by DIALED IN (USA) from SUENO D’ORO (USA)
• Age/Gender: 7YO Gelding
• Trainer: Mr Brian Ellison (North Yorkshire (GB))
• Jockey: Craig Williams
• Weight: 51kg includes 1.0kg penalty (at time of publish)
• Barrier: 11
• Owners: Mr PD Boyle
• Current Melbourne Cup 2024 Odds*: $7.50 (at time of publish)
• Latest Start: 1st by 2.25 lengths in the Group 3 Ladbrokes Geelong Cup (2400m) on October 23

Another raider flew into Melbourne Cup contention with the Brian Ellison-trained British visitor Onesmoothoperator, 7th to Magical Zoe in August’s Ebor Handicap, making a big impact first-up down under to salute in the Ladbrokes Geelong Cup. 

Craig Williams guided the galloper who improved on his last start overseas in the Group 3 September Stakes with a powerful run home to salute by over two lengths on the line over the locals. 

The Geelong Cup has been a terrific Melbourne Cup form race for the raiders and the bookies reacted immediately moving Onesmoothoperator onto the 4th line of all-in markets at $12 before he firmed further to sit equal second with Buckaroo at $7 at time of publish for his big performance. 

Williams was full of post-race praise, the horse did it easy with 54kg and will carry a few less on the first Tuesday of November, and he’s proven over further than two miles so will only improve. 

Penalised 1kg for the Geelong victory taking him up to 51kg, which is still a lovely weight for this horse. 

Williams, who won on Vow And Declare back in 2019, has been confirmed to stick with him in the Melbourne Cup in a huge tick for the horse. 

He was under a cloud however after being found to have a heel cut on the Friday prior to the Cup but was reshoed and re-examined on Saturday morning getting the all clear to run. 

Raider who made a big first-up impact in the Geelong Cup on his way to the big one! 

14. ZARDOZI (3)

• Breeding: by KINGMAN (GB) from CHANDERI (GB)
• Age/Gender: 4YO Mare
• Trainer: James Cummings
• Jockey: Andrea Atzeni
• Weight: 51kg (at time of publish)
• Barrier: 3
• Owners: Godolphin
• Current Melbourne Cup 2024 Odds*: $17 (at time of publish)
• Latest Start: 4th beaten 8.5 lengths by Duke De Sessa in the Group 1 Caulfield Cup (2400m) on October 19

Australian-bred Kingman mare, Zardozi, is on track for a Melbourne Cup bid donning the Royal Blue of Godolphin and this four-year-old could be a value shot at 50/1 at time of publish. 

Italian hoop Andrea Atzeni is booked for the ride on 51kg.

It has been a while since the mare was in the winner’s stall when claiming the Group 2 Phar Lap Stakes as a filly back in March at Rosehill, but she’s been competitive in plenty since. 

Was an ATC Oaks runner-up back in April over the 2400m and saw that distance last start when fourth beaten a pretty big margin in the Caulfield Cup.

Many expected her to finish closer but still think that run was brave. 

Second in The Metrop the start prior in Sydney and she’s a proven Group 1 winner at Flemington having taken out last year’s VRC Oaks. 

Is she going well enough as a more seasoned mare? 

Not sure she showed enough in the Caulfield Cup to be considered a danger! 

15. SEA KING (GB) (1)

• Breeding: by SEA THE STARS (IRE) from PAMONA (IRE)
• Age/Gender: 6YO Gelding
• Trainer: Mr Harry Eustace (Newmarket (GB))
• Jockey: Hollie Doyle 
• Weight: 50.5kg – includes 0.5kg penalty (at time of publish)
• Barrier: 1
• Owners: OTI Sea King, Mr L D Freeman, Mrs L J Freeman, Mr A H Goodfellow, Mrs P I Goodfellow, Mr J P Spence, Marshall Racing, Mr M P Stone, Webbmck Racing, Beartown 39, Mrs M F Anderson, Mr S P Anderson, Mr I G Cornell, Goldmount Lodge Pty Ltd, Mr M A Lowe, Mr W J Watts, Mr M E Evans, Mr J G Benz, Nose Hair, Miss G I Solomon-Innes
• Current Melbourne Cup 2024 Odds*: $10 (at time of publish)
• Latest Start: 1st by 3.75 lengths beating Berkley Square in the Group 3 Bendigo Cup (2400m) on October 30, 2024 

UK raider Sea King charged into Melbourne Cup calculations with the OTI Racing-owned son of Sea The Stars demolishing his rivals by nearly four lengths first-up in Australia in the Group 3 Bendigo Cup (2400m). 

The Harry Eustace-trained visitor was unexpected to make the Melbourne Cup field but the attrition rate and his sensational debut down under has thrown him right into the mix as a single-figure fancy.

He’ll be a flying lightweight even with the half-kilo penalty in on 50.5kg with Hollie Doyle to ride. 

Brings in Ebor form and shouldn’t have a worry with the 3200m. 

Bendigo Cup – Melbourne Cup double could be pending for another international! 

16. VALIANT KING (GB) (21)

• Breeding: by ROARING LION (USA) from ASSEMBLY (USA)
• Age/Gender: 5YO Gelding
• Trainer: Chris Waller (Flemington)
• Jockey: Craig Newitt
• Weight: 50.5kg (at time of publish)
• Barrier: 21
• Owners: Mr A Kheir, Qatar Bloodstock Ltd, Mr J A O’Neill, YES Bloodstock, Carty Racing, A K Racing, BDTJJ Racing, Mr B D Nettlefold, Solscaf Racing, Mr T R Maddern, Bromfield Park Pty Ltd
• Current Melbourne Cup 2024 Odds*: $126 (at time of publish)
• Latest Start: 9th beaten 13.15 lengths by Duke De Sessa in the Group 1 Caulfield Cup (2400m) on October 19

One of the longer priced hopefuls from the Waller contingent, Valiant King returns this spring chasing atonement after being ruled out of last year’s Melbourne Cup race as an Irish-trained raider with Joseph O’Brien. 

He is now locally based at Flemington with master trainer Waller. 

Sixth in the Caulfield Cup last year, the grey was ninth in that same lead-up this season over 13 lengths off the winner. 

The five-year-old is still lightly raced with that just his 11th start. 

Has won just the one race over 2011m overseas last May and will need to pull out something pretty magical to improve enough to challenge here. 

Craig Newitt rides. 

Worst of the Waller hopes. 

17. FANCY MAN (IRE) (18)

• Breeding: by PRIDE OF DUBAI from FANCY (IRE)
• Age/Gender: 7YO Gelding
• Trainers: Annabel Neasham & Rob Archibald (Pakenham OC)
• Jockey: Ron Stewart
• Weight: 50kg (at time of publish)
• Barrier: 18
• Owners: The Clan, Mr P L Ward, Mr P J Prendergast, Mr G P Carmody, Walker Racing & Bloodstock, Mr M J Gordon, Mr C S White, Dr J R Ramsay, Mr A J Luciano, Mrs J A Canceri, Mr R S Canceri, Mr D Cicolella, Mr M Bernatovic, UP Racing, Werrett Bloodstock Pty Ltd, Mr C H Madden, Mrs J G Madden, Hon. G J Williamson, Mr P A Bekker, A F I Racing
• Current Melbourne Cup 2024 Odds*: $101 (at time of publish)
• Latest Start: 6th beaten 9.65 lengths by Duke De Sessa in the Group 1 Caulfield Cup (2400m) on October 19 

Caulfield Cup winning trainer Ciaron Maher may not be represented by Duke De Sessa in the Melbourne Cup field but he still saddles-up a few hopes including this triple-figure roughie who comes off a sixth to his stablemate in the lead-up feature. 

Ronnie Stewart retains the ride up to two miles on the first Tuesday of November as this nicely bred son of Pride Of Dubai chases a light weight upset. 

He hasn’t won since carrying 58kg to victory at Eagle Farm in last year’s Queensland Cup but has been solid in his lead-ups this time in. 

Performing well and looks slightly overs for a run in the Top 6. 

One of the better roughies! 

18. INTERPRETATION (IRE) (13)

• Breeding: by GALILEO (IRE) from DALDIYNA (FR)
• Age/Gender: 7YO Gelding
• Trainer: Ciaron Maher (Cranbourne)
• Jockey: Teo Nugent
• Weight: 50kg (at time of publish)
• Barrier: 13
• Owners: Mr A Kheir, Mr J A O’Neill, Mrs L Buzadzic, Mr T R Maddern, Mr R Mesiano, Carty Racing, Mr M S Dandiwal, Mr V Kheir, Mr B A Secatore, Mrs R T Secatore, Mr G J Skien, Mr S A Lewin, Mr R E Wilson, Mr A Obarzanski, Mr W Brownlee-Smith, A K Racing, Halo Racing Services Pty Ltd, Solscaf Racing, Mr B D Nettlefold
• Current Melbourne Cup 2024 Odds*: $19 (at time of publish)
• Latest Start: 2nd beaten 2.25 lengths by Onesmoothoperator in the Group 3 Geelong Cup (2400m) on October 23

One of the best fancied of the locally trained Melbourne Cup runners this year, Interpretation is looking to hand master trainer of stayers Ciaron Maher his second following the success of Gold Trip in 2022. 

Last year’s Bendigo Cup winner was at big odds when running out of his skin for sixth to Without A Fight in the Melbourne Cup results only five lengths beaten from barrier 17. 

He remains a genuine lightweight hope again 12 months on getting in with just 50kg with Teo Nugent the confirmed Melbourne Cup rider. 

The now seven-year-old has been thereabouts in some of the traditional Melbourne Cup stepping-stones without really coming into his own.

The Geelong Cup second behind the very talented raider Onesmoothoperator last start was strong and he’ll meet him better in the Melbourne Cup weights for the rematch. 

Has had 11 Flemington runs without a win though so will need to pull out all the stops to break his Headquarters hoodoo. 

Was under a cloud when failing a vet check on Thursday but subsequently passed his re-examination and has been cleared to run. 

Has eased with the concern but wouldn’t have got the all clear if he wasn’t fit and ready to fire. 

Potential value now having his third start in a Melbourne Cup field. 

On the improve for Maher and gets in on a light weight. 

19. MANZOICE (7)

• Breeding: by ALMANZOR (FR) from CHOICE (NZ)
• Age/Gender: 5YO Gelding
• Trainer: Chris Waller
• Jockey: Declan Bates
• Weight: 50kg (at time of publish)
• Barrier: 7
• Owners: Mr B J Flannery, Mrs P A Flannery, Mr T D Flannery, Mr Q J Flannery
• Current Melbourne Cup 2024 Odds*: $101 (at time of publish)
• Latest Start: 7th beaten 3.62 lengths by Okita Soushi in the Group 2 Ladbrokes Moonee Valley Gold Cup (2500m) on October 25

Adding to the Chris Waller Melbourne Cup contingent is this former Victoria Derby winner who hasn’t won a race since his 2022 win in the classic defeating another of Tuesday’s Melbourne Cup horses, Sharp ‘N’ Smart.

He gains a start after Kiwi galloper Mahrajaan was ruled out on Saturday morning due to his CT scans. 

Latest run was a seventh behind Okita Soushi in the Moonee Valley Gold Cup. 

Obviously has been a long time between wins and needs to improve, but this is a pretty dismal field and he’s got no weight. 

Could get up in behind his stablemates for a top six run at big odds. 

Sneaky lightweight finding form at the right time for a top six performance.  

20. MOSTLY CLOUDY (IRE) (15)

• Breeding: by HARZAND (IRE) from CLARINDA (FR)
• Age/Gender: 6YO Gelding
• Trainers: Trent Busuttin & Natalie Young (Cranbourne)
• Jockey: Karis Teetan
• Weight: 50kg (at time of publish)
• Barrier: 15
• Owners: Busuttin Racing, Ridgmont, J A K Racing, Mr C Schembri, Mr I C Burford, Mr A C Salter, Mr A G Zoanetti, Ms D V Pope, Mr M J Gordon, Miss C L Cotter, F J S T, Oz Racing Pty Ltd, Mr D G Lightfoot, Mr M G Carey, Ms N J Young, Mr T L Busuttin
• Current Melbourne Cup 2024 Odds*: $81 (at time of publish)
• Latest Start: 12th beaten 6.12 lengths by Just Fine in the Group 3 The Bart Cummings (2520m) on October 5

Mostly Cloudy lines-up in the Melbourne Cup field off a disappointing The Bart Cummings performance from Turnbull Day. 

The Busuttin & Young-trained six-year-old will understandably go around at big odds but will carry just 50kg with Karis Teetan riding. 

Fourth in the Lexus Archer behind Point King the run before he’s got a pretty good Flemington strike rate (9:1-2-2) and is one of the proven two-mile horses in the mix. 

The import hasn’t won since last September but will relish a rise in trip having run second in both the Andrew Ramsden and the Group 2 Brisbane Cup this winter gone over the longer distances. 

Jumps from barrier 15.

Right track and distance but lacking class. 

21. POSITIVITY (NZ) (19)

• Breeding: by ALMANZOR (FR) from PUSSY O’REILLY (NZ)
• Age/Gender: 4YO mare
• Trainer: Andrew Forsman (Flemington)
• Jockey: Winona Costin
• Weight: 50kg (at time of publish)
• Barrier: 19
• Owners: Mr C W Kwok
• Current Melbourne Cup 2024 Odds*: $151 (at time of publish)
• Latest Start: 8th beaten 5.12 lengths by Okita Soushi in the Group 2 Ladbrokes Moonee Valley Gold Cup (2500m) on October 25

Positivity confirmed her start in the Melbourne Cup 2024 with a lovely piece of work a week out from the event. 

This Andrew Forsman-trained Kiwi mare is chasing atonement, as is her rider Winona Costin, after being a late withdrawal from the Caulfield Cup. 

Obviously, that would have been an important stepping-stone to the 3200m feature but the four-year-old daughter Almanzor gets in now with just 50kg as a sneaky outsider forgotten in the markets.

She was an emphatic Group 3 SA Fillies Classic winner over 2500m at Morphettville earlier in the year and won September’s Group 3 Naturalism Stakes narrowly with 54kg. 

Two subsequent starts had her 7th in The Bart Cummings and 8th to Okita Soushi in the Ladbrokes Moonee Valley Gold Cup on Cox Plate Eve. 

Will appreciate two miles and 50kg on the roomier track.

Quality mare and a younger hope that can beat a few of these at a price. 

22. SAINT GEORGE (GB) (8)

• Breeding: by ROARING LION (USA) from LADY DRAGON (IRE)
• Age/Gender: 5YO Horse
• Trainer: Ciaron Maher
• Jockey: Tyler Schiller
• Weight: 50kg (at time of publish)
• Barrier: 8
• Owners: Deg Racing, Qatar Bloodstock Ltd, Mr A Kheir, Mr J A O’Neill, Mr N A Greenhalgh, Mrs M T Greenhalgh, A R E Investments, Sneesby Racing, Mr A J Willoughby, Carty Racing, A K Racing
• Current Melbourne Cup 2024 Odds*: $21 (at time of publish)
• Latest Start: 5th beaten 3.02 lengths by Okita Soushi in the Group 2 Ladbrokes Moonee Valley Gold Cup (2500m) on October 25

Adding to the strong Ciaron Maher Melbourne Cup contingent is this unassuming import who will get in with no weight looking to improve on his lead-up fifth in the Moonee Valley Gold Cup to stablemate Okita Soushi. 

The Roaring Lion grey looks to be finding his stride down under now and has winning form overseas up to 2916m. 

Tyler Schiller to ride from a favourable barrier eight draw. 

Sneaky lightweight finding form at the right time for a top six performance.  

23. THE MAP (22)

• Breeding: by ALPINE EAGLE from THIS MOMENT
• Age/Gender: 6YO mare
• Trainers: Dan Clarken & Oopy MacGillivray (Murray Bridge)
• Jockey: Rachel King
• Weight: 50kg (at time of publish)
• Barrier: 22
• Owners: Mrs J A Macgillivray, Mr D J Clarken, South East Connections, Gambling Graziers, Mr R A Sadek, Mr P Cousins, Mr G V Davidson, Mrs B R Davidson, Mr B R Hayden
• Current Melbourne Cup 2024 Odds*: $51 (at time of publish)
• Latest Start: 6th beaten 4.9 lengths by Onesmoothoperator in the Group 3 Ladbrokes Geelong Cup (2400m) on October 23

Murray Bridge horsemen Dan Clarken & Oopy MacGillivray have a class mare into the Melbourne Cup with The Map putting herself in the frame for a shot at the ‘Race That Stops a Nation’ with her half-length romp home over 2800m in the Listed Andrew Ramsden back in May. 

Subsequent run had her running ninth in the Listed MacDonald Stakes (1400m) at home on August 24, but she was a 30/1 over that unsuitably short distance for a reason and lost few admirers hitting the line well under four lengths beaten with 57kg. 

She’ll relish further as she gets deeper into her spring prep eyeing that potential Melbourne Cup run and will be in on a lightweight. 

Denied a Group 2 Adelaide Cup victory over the two miles back in March beaten a nostril flare by Excelleration. Her Andrew Ramsden victory saw her atone however with the Adelaide Cup winner Excelleration running third in the Melbourne Cup golden ticket race.

She’ll stay all day and eat up the Melbourne Cup distance. Easy Melbourne Cup Day winner last year in the The Macca’s Run over 2800m. Can she go all the way in the big one 12 months on?

Only three Australian-bred horses have won the Melbourne Cup in the 21st century with Vow And Declare (2019) the latest. 

Finished 11th in the Group 3 Naturalism and Jamie Kah has been booked to ride rival in Point King and Rachel King comes aboard as the replacement rider in the Cup. 

Dour stayer with Cup Day experience. Can surprise. 

24. TRUST IN YOU (NZ) (4)

• Breeding: by SWEYNESSE from SHINKO BAY (NZ)
• Age/Gender: 6YO Gelding
• Trainers: Bruce Wallace & Grant Cooksley (Byerley Park (NZ))
• Jockey: Mark Du Plessis 
• Weight: 50kg (at time of publish)
• Barrier: 4
• Owners: Mr B J Wallace, Mr R J Wallace, Mr C J Wallace, Mr J R Wallace, Mr A J Reynolds, Mr C W Reynolds
• Current Melbourne Cup 2024 Odds*: $201 (at time of publish)
• Latest Start: 4th beaten 2.42 lengths by Athabascan in the Group 3 St Leger (2600m) at Randwick on October 19, 2024 

One of the last horses to gain a start in this year’s Melbourne Cup field is Kiwi galloper Trust In You set to go around at triple figures in his toughest test to date. 

The six-year-old son of Sweynesse will be ridden by Mark Du Plessis who has his sixth ride in the ‘Race That Stops a Nation’. 

A 50kg lightweight, the horse was last seen running a gallant fourth only two lengths off fellow Melbourne Cup runner Athabascan in Sydney’s St Leger race over 2600m. 

His last win was in a Group 3 over 2400m back home in January.

He’ll stay but not sure he’s up to this field. 

Drawn one of the best Melbourne Cup barriers (4) statistically speaking. 

Better lightweights. One of the last place bets.  

Melbourne Cup 2024 Odds & Results

Flemington R7
Lexus Melbourne Cup (G1)

Final Race time:  1730779472

Runner Details	Win	Place
1st 11. Knight's Choice (5) J: Robbie Dolan 51.5kg T: J G Symons & S Laxon	81.00	18.00
2nd 4. Warp Speed (2) J: Akira Sugawara 54.5kg T: N Takagi	26.00	7.00
3rd 12. Okita Soushi (9) J: Jamie Kah 51kg T: Ciaron Maher	19.00	6.50
4th 14. Zardozi (3) J: Andrea Atzeni 51kg T: James Cummings	14.00	4.50
5th 9. Absurde (6) J: Kerrin McEvoy 52.5kg T: Willie Mullins	10.00	3.50
6th 3. Circle Of Fire (23) J: Mark Zahra 54.5kg T: Ciaron Maher	23.00	6.50
7th 17. Fancy Man (18) J: Ron Stewart 50kg T: Annabel Neasham & Rob Archibald	81.00	17.00
8th 8. Land Legend (17) J: Zac Purton 53kg T: Chris Waller	14.00	4.80
9th 2. Buckaroo (20) J: Joao Moreira 54.5kg T: Chris Waller	6.50	2.50
10th 5. Kovalica (16) J: Damian Lane 53.5kg T: Chris Waller	26.00	7.00
11th 1. Vauban (10) J: William Buick 55.5kg T: Willie Mullins	8.00	2.90
12th 13. Onesmoothoperator (11) J: Craig Williams 51kg T: Brian Ellison	7.00	2.70
13th 16. Valiant King (21) J: Craig Newitt 50.5kg T: Chris Waller	91.00	18.00
14th 15. Sea King (1) J: Hollie Doyle 50.5kg T: Harry Eustace	12.00	4.00
15th 18. Interpretation (13) J: Teodore Nugent 50kg T: Ciaron Maher	21.00	6.00
16th 6. Sharp 'N' Smart (14) J: Michael Dee 53.5kg T: Graeme & Debbie Rogerson	51.00	12.00
17th 24. Trust In You (4) J: Mark Du Plessis 50kg T: Bruce Wallace & Grant Cooksley	71.00	17.00
18th 20. Mostly Cloudy (15) J: Karis Teetan 50kg T: Trent Busuttin & Natalie Young	101.00	19.00
19th 19. Manzoice (7) J: Declan Bates 50kg T: Chris Waller	126.00	23.00
20th 21. Positivity (19) J: Winona Costin 50kg T: Andrew Forsman	101.00	20.00
21st 23. The Map (22) J: Rachel King 50kg T: Dan Clarken & Oopy MacGillivray	71.00	15.00
22nd 22. Saint George (8) J: Tyler Schiller 50kg T: Ciaron Maher	23.00	6.50
23rd 7. Just Fine (12) J: Jye McNeil 53kg T: G Waterhouse & A Bott	35.00	10.00

Odds are subject to fluctuation. For current odds on all of our live racing markets, please visit www.ladbrokes.com.au/racing.
Data retrieved: 23/12/2024 01:15:43 AM (Australia/Brisbane)

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