International invitations for Cox Plate
Japanese stars Maurice and A Shin Hikari are among the list of 11 northern hemisphere horses invited to run in the Cox Plate.
The Moonee Valley Racing Club issued invitations on Thursday to four Japanese horses, four from the United Kingdom and one each from France, Hong Kong and Ireland for the Cox Plate (2040m) on Octobber 22.
Multiple Group One winner Maurice, a winner in Hong Kong two starts ago, and A Shin Hikari, a last-start winner in France, headline the Japanese contingent.
Former New Zealander Werther, a dual Group One winner in Hong Kong, has also been invited but his trainer John Moore has indicated he will stay at home to concentrate on the international meeting at Sha Tin in December.
Last year’s Cox Plate third placegetter Highland Reel has been invited back.
After his placing last year behind Winx, Highland Reel went to Hong Kong to win the International Vase over 2400m.
The Grey Gatsby has been invited again after the Kevin Ryan-trained horse failed to make the trip to Australia last year.
Moonee Valley says it is committed to international competition for the Cox Plate and covers all the costs associated with transporting the horses to Australia.
The club says it will continue to monitor the major international Group One races over the coming months for other potential invitees.
List of Cox Plate invitees with trainer and country
A Shin Hikari – Masanori Sakaguchi – Japan
Cannock Chase – Sir Michael Stoute – England
Highland Reel – Aidan OBrien – Ireland
Kitasan Black – Hisashi Shimizu – Japan
Last Impact – Katsuhiko Sumii – Japan
Maurice – Noriyuki Hori – Japan
The Grey Gatsby – Kevin Ryan – England
Time Test – Roger Charlton – United Kingdom
Tryster – Charlie Appleby – England
Vadamos – Andre Fabre – France
Werther – John Moore – Hong Kong