A runner-by-runner guide to the 2020 Melbourne Cup
The Melbourne Cup will be run and won on Tuesday, November 3, 2020, with our runner-by-runner guide updated when the field is released. Our guide to the Melbourne Cup runners includes the top odds for each horse, recent form and other important betting information.
Melbourne Cup field, form and runner by runner examination
We took a look at the contenders for this year’s Melbourne Cup and gave our impressions on the race that stops a nation ahead of what looms as one of the hardest races to predict in the Australian spring.
2020 Melbourne Cup Field
| 2020 Melbourne Cup Field | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| No. | Silks | Horse | Trainer | Jockey | Barrier | Weight | Odds |
| 1 |  |
Anthony Van Dyck | Aidan O’Brien | Hugh Bowman | 3 | 58.5kg | $8.50 |
| 2 |  |
Avilius | James Cummings | John Allen | 10 | 57kg | $51 |
| 3 |  |
Vow And Declare | Danny O’Brien | Jamie Mott | 4 | 57kg | $51 |
| 4 |  |
Master Of Reality | Joseph O’Brien | Ben Melham | 11 | 56kg | $26 |
| 5 |  |
Sir Dragonet | C Maher & D Eustace | Glen Boss | 14 | 55.5kg | $10 |
| 6 |  |
Twilight Payment | Joseph O’Brien | Jye McNeil | 12 | 55.5kg | $31 |
| 7 |  |
Verry Elleegant | Chris Waller | Mark Zahra | 15 | 55.5kg | $13 |
| 8 |  |
Mustajeer | Kris Lees | Michael Rodd | 2 | 55kg | $101 |
| 9 |  |
Stratum Albion | Willie Mullins | Jordan Childs | 9 | 55kg | $47 |
| 10 |  |
Dashing Willoughby | Andrew Balding | Michael Walker | 19 | 54.5kg | $101 |
| 11 |  |
Finche | Chris Waller | James McDonald | 6 | 54.5kg | $19 |
| 12 |  |
Prince Of Arran | Charlie Fellowes | Jamie Kah | 1 | 54.5kg | $12 |
| 13 |  |
Surprise Baby | Paul Preusker | Craig Williams | 7 | 54.5kg | $9.50 |
| 14 |  |
SCR | |||||
| 15 |  |
Russian Camelot | Danny O’Brien | Damien Oliver | 16 | 53.5kg | $13 |
| 16 |  |
Steel Prince | A & S Freedman | William Pike | 21 | 53.5kg | $44 |
| 17 |  |
The Chosen One | M Baker & A Forsman | Daniel Stackhouse | 5 | 53.5kg | $42 |
| 18 |  |
Ashrun | Andreas Wohler | Declan Bates | 24 | 53kg | $23 |
| 19 |  |
Warning | A & S Freeman | Luke Currie | 8 | 53kg | $51 |
| 20 |  |
Etah James | C Maher & D Eustace | Billy Egan | 22 | 52.5kg | $201 |
| 21 |  |
Tiger Moth | Aidan O’Brien | Kerrin McEvoy | 23 | 52.5kg | $8.60 |
| 22 |  |
Oceanex | M Price & M Kent jnr | Dean Yendall | 17 | 51.5kg | $101 |
| 23 |  |
Miami Bound | Danny O’Brien | Daniel Moor | 21 | 51kg | $41 |
| 24 |  |
Persan | C Maher & D Eustace | Michael Dee | 20 | 51kg | $42 |
2020 Melbourne Cup Full Form Guide & Runner By Runner Betting Preview
Despite fears six months ago of either an all-Australian Melbourne Cup or no Cup at all, the great race has been assembled for the first Tuesday in November and has attracted one of the strongest fields we have ever seen.
The full field of 24 horses includes nine international runners. Run over 3200m at Flemington for $7,750,000, it truly is the race that stops a nation.
2020 Melbourne Cup Speed Map
Similarly to last year, we expect to see Twilight Payment and Master Of Reality up there bowling along. Adding a bit more pressure into the race is outsider Dashing Willoughby, who has drawn wide and will look to cross them early.
Finche won’t be all that far away, while we suspect last year’s winner, Vow And Declare, will use his low gate to box seat. Anthony Van Dyck should settle closer than his Caulfield Cup run from barrier three, while Melbourne Cup betting sites fancies Verry Elleegant, Prince Of Arran, Tiger Moth and Surprise Baby will all be around midfield.
Melbourne Cup Runner by Runner Betting Preview
Anthony Van Dyck comes off a brilliant second in the Caulfield Cup in what was the perfect lead-up run for this race. He drew the carpark on that occasion, so the low draw will be beneficial here and allow Bowman to settle a bit closer than he did a fortnight ago. He’s an Epsom Derby winner and beat one of the world’s best stayers in Stradivarius in his last start before coming to Australia. It would be an extraordinary feat if he were to win the Melbourne Cup with 58.5kg, with no horse since Makybe Diva in 2005 reigning supreme with 58kg or more. His best form is at 2400m and he is untested beyond that, so he has a task ahead of him, but his Caulfield Cup run was pleasing.
Can Anthony Van Dyck win The Cup?
He can if he brings his best. The big weight, where he gets to in the run, and whether or not he can stay out the two miles are huge question marks, but on class alone, he has to be right in the mix.
Anthony Van Dyck 2nd to Verry Elleegant – 2020 Caulfield Cup
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Godolphin have just the one runner in the race this year, with James Cummings’ Avilius. He finished a long way from the winner in this race in 2018, when the fallen horse came down in front of him, so we are penning that completely here. He’s a winner over 2500m at Flemington and comes off a luckless effort in the Caulfield Cup when strung up in traffic in the straight. All four of his runs this campaign have suggested this has been his target race, and he is in the right hands to give the grandson of the Cup’s King his first Melbourne Cup. He is a three-time Group 1 winner and has drawn favourably in barrier 10 to allow John Allen to find a spot, switch off and utilise the horse’s scintillating turn of foot.
Can Avilius win The Cup?
He’s the forgotten horse coming into this we think. He’ll get all the favours in the run, and as long as he can stay the trip, he is a live each-way chance.
Avilius 6th to Verry Elleegant – 2020 Caulfield Cup
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The reigning champion returns for another throw at the stumps here, albeit with 5kg more. He gets the blinkers on for the first time and is drawn much kinder in barrier four. Craig Williams has jumped off, so Jamie Mott will get the sit on the five-year-old gelding for the first time and is likely to get the run of the race from barrier four. His form has been lacklustre in the past 12 months, failing to win a race. He finished 12th in the Turnbull Stakes and 15th in the Caulfield Cup at his last two outings, so it is fair to say he isn’t in the same rich vein of form he was in 12 months ago.
Can Vow And Declare win The Cup?
The rise in weight and the loss of form is a big concern for last year’s winner. We can’t have him winning back-to-back Cups.
Vow And Declare 15th to Verry Elleegant – 2020 Caulfield Cup
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4
Master Of Reality (11)
Ireland
6YO Bay Gelding
Ben Melham (56kg)
Aidan O’Brien
The son of Frankel finished fourth in this race last year after being relegated from second placing in the steward’s room. He has only had the four runs since, winning dominantly over 2800m at his latest. He only rises half a kilogram from his performance last year, and he gets the in-form Ben Melham aboard. From gate 11, they’ll be right thereabouts in the run again and be hoping to finish one spot better than last year. He is owned by one of the most prolific owners in Melbourne Cup history in Lloyd Williams, who is chasing his seventh victory in the great race.
Can Master Of Reality win The Cup?
If he brings a similar performance from last year, he is a huge chance. He is well in at the weights, drawn well and will definitely stay the journey. Don’t leave him out of your multiples.
Vow And Declare 15th to Verry Elleegant – 2020 Caulfield Cup
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5
Sir Dragonet (14)
Ireland5YO Bay Horse
Glen Boss (55.5kg)
Ciaron Maher & David Eustace
Sir Dragonet is coming in hot off an impressive win in the Cox Plate last weekend. Three-time Melbourne Cup winning jockey Glen Boss retains the ride as he looks for his first Cup since ’05. The son of Camelot drops 3.5kg from his Cox Plate win, which is a huge plus, but he’ll need every bit of assistance as he rises to 3200m for the first time. He finished 3L off the winner in the Great British St Leger over 2900m 14 months ago, but his form since has been best at 2000m. He’ll settle midfield from barrier 14 and look to add a Melbourne Cup to his Australian assault.
Can Sir Dragonet win The Cup?
The 3200m is a big concern. His Cox Plate win suggested he is all class, but at the top of the market, we are happy to bet around him.
Sir Dragonet wins 2020 Cox Plate
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6
Twilight Payment (12)
Ireland8YO Bay Horse
Jye McNeil (55.5kg)
Joseph O’Brien
Finished 11th in this race last year when sent out as a despised outsider under Hugh Bowman. Jye McNeil takes the ride this year, and from barrier 12, we imagine to see the pair lead the field up along the back. His form since this race last year has been excellent, with two wins including an 8L romping over Master Of Reality at The Curragh. He rises 0.5kg from last year and is now an eight-year-old, so we have to question whether he’ll be sharp enough.
Can Twilight Payment win The Cup?
His form in the last six months suggests he can, but his age and racing pattern makes it hard for us to see him winning.
Twilight Payment 3rd 2020 Irish St Leger
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7
Verry Elleegant (15)
New Zealand5YO Brown Mare
Mark Zahra (55.5kg)
Chris Waller
Verry Elleegant comes off two monster efforts in winning both the Turnbull Stakes and the Caulfield Cup in preparation for her first attempt at two miles. She’s arguably Australia’s best horse, in the hands of one of our best trainers in Chris Waller, so she has to be a genuine winning hope. While barrier 15 isn’t ideal, she has faired better than a number of key chances, and it allows Mark Zahra, who is now two from two on the mare, to find cover early and allow her to relax. She would have to be the first mare to win the race since Makybe Diva 15 years ago.
Can Verry Elleegant win The Cup?
Yes, she can. History is against her, and her tendency to over-race could cost her at 3200m. Traditionally, the Turnbull and Caulfield Cup would be ideal lead ups for this race, and she has been excellent in winning both.
Verry Elleegant wins 2020 Caulfield Cup
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8
Mustajeer (2)
United Kingdom8YO Brown Gelding
Michael Rodd (55kg)
Kris Lees
The eight-year-old came over here 12 months ago after winning the Ebor Handicap fashionably, but he has never really fired, winning only once in 10 Australian starts. He only beat one runner home in this race last year and stays at 55kg this time in. We did see an improved showing in the Caulfield Cup, but he arguably ran better in that race 12 months ago also before failing in the Melbourne Cup. From barrier two, he could get tucked away on the rails, which won’t help his winning chances, but he is aided by a Melbourne Cup-winning jockey in Michael Rodd.
Can Mutstajeer win The Cup?
He can if he brings his Ebor form from 18 months ago, but he hasn’t shown any of that since being in Australia, and we don’t expect him to fire here.
Mustajeer 8th to Verry Elleegant – 2020 Caulfield Cup
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9
Stratum Albion (9)
United Kingdom8YO Bay Gelding
Jordan Childs (55kg)
Willie Mullins
Willie Mullins brings over eight-year-old Stratum Albion for a Cup tilt, but his form suggests he isn’t going well enough. He does come off a second to the precocious Enbihaar at York last start over 2800m, but his form prior was plain. He is drawn well in barrier nine, but he is typically ridden cold, so expect to see him with a wall in front of them as they swing for home. It’s been over 12 months since his last win, and we can’t see him breaking the drought in this.
Can Stratum Albion win The Cup?
He’s in the hands of a great trainer, but his form is ordinary. No, he can’t.
Stratum Albion (Stratum) 2nd 2020 Lonsdale Cup
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10
Dashing Willoughby (19)
United Kingdom5YO Bay Gelding
Michael Walker (54.5kg)
Andrew Balding
Dashing Willoughby came to Australia with plenty of admirers, but he was very ordinary in the Caulfield Cup when finishing a long last. Michael Walker would be feeling pretty ill right about now, after electing to jump of Prince Of Arran to ride Dashing Willoughby this spring. He will likely lead from barrier 19 or at least be right thereabouts in the run, but he would need to improve drastically. The big track and 3200m should suit, as he has a win over 2018 Melbourne Cup winner Cross Counter at this distance three starts ago.
Can Dashing Willoughby win The Cup?
Not unless he improves 30 lengths. He’s $126 for a reason.
Dashing Willoughby 18th to Verry Elleegant – 2020 Caulfield Cup
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11
Finche (6)
United Kingdom7YO Chestnut Gelding
James McDonald (54.5kg)
Chris Waller
Finche is back for a third roll of the dice in the Melbourne Cup as a seven-year-old. His three runs this time in have been encouraging, placing in the Chelmsford and the Turnbull Stakes before a gallant fifth in the Caulfield Cup at his latest. James McDonald will hop aboard for the first time, and from barrier six, they should get a beautiful run in behind the speed. He finished seventh in this race last year and fourth the year before, so he is always right thereabouts in the finish and has to be respected. Waller and McDonald are striking at 19% when combining, which is great areas, and neither have won a Cup, so they’ll both be hungry for the success.
Can Finche win The Cup?
His preparation has been faultless thus far, and he is in great hands. He’ll need to go to another level again here, but he cannot be left out of multiples.
Finche 5th to Verry Elleegant – 2020 Caulfield Cup
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12
Prince Of Arran (1)
United Kingdom8YO Bay Gelding
Jamie Kah (54.5kg)
Charlie Fellowes
Prince Of Arran had the perfect Cup trial when fourth in the Caulfield Cup last start. This is now his third trip to Australia, where he has had success in running third and second in the 2018 and 2019 Melbourne Cup respectively. He has won a Geelong Cup and a Lexus Handicap in his time in Australia but is still chasing his first Melbourne Cup. The way he flashed from last in the Caulfield Cup suggests he is ready to go over 3200m, and getting back to Flemington will only help. From the inside alley, Jamie Kah is likely to settle a bit closer in the run and should be strong late
Can Prince Of Arran win The Cup?
He’s placed twice in this race, and there’s no reason why he can’t go one better this year. He thrives in Australia and has been set for this all along.
Prince Of Arran 4th to Verry Elleegant – 2020 Caulfield Cup
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13
Surprise Baby (7)
New Zealand6YO Bay or Brown Gelding
Craig Williams (54.5kg)
Paul Preusker
Somewhat the forgotten horse this year despite being rock solid in the market is Paul Preusker’s Surprise Baby. The lightly raced five-year-old has only had two runs since running a massive fifth in this race last year, where he was one of the only horses to make any ground from the back. His first-up run around The Valley at an unsuitable trip was great, and his Turnbull run was luckless. In just his sixth career start, he was a dominant winner in the Adelaide Cup over 3200m, so we know he will stay, and he can only have gotten better in the past 12 months. He rises 1kg here and gets Craig Williams aboard from barrier seven, which is ideal. He’s been set for this for a long time.
Can Surprise Baby win The Cup?
Absolutely, he can. This has been his goal for 12 months, and he looks the perfect horse to give both Craig Williams and Australia back-to-back Melbourne Cups.
Surprise Baby 9th to Verry Elleegant – 2020 Turnbull Stakes
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14
King Of Leogrance (18)
France6YO Bay Gelding
Damian Lane (53.5kg)
Danny O’Brien
SCRATCHED
He won this year’s Adelaide Cup and was nearly favourite for this race six months ago, but his form since hasn’t been that fantastic. He was beaten by Oceanex in the Andrew Ramsden and has since only placed in the Geelong Cup when in the worst part of the ground. Damien Lane has stuck, and he is in the hands of elite staying trainer Danny O’Brien. The 3200m will be no concern at all, but he will be back in the run and have plenty to do. In 159 years of the Melbourne Cup, no horse has ever won from barrier 18.
Can King Of Leogrance win The Cup?
The history buffs would be completely turned off by barrier 18, so we’ll say no. His form hasn’t really been good enough, but he will stay the trip and did beat Ashrun home at Geelong.
*** UPDATE ***
King of Leogrance has been scratched from the Melbourne Cup (Flemington Race 7) at 7.38am by the Stewards acting on veterinary advice. The horse was inspected by RV veterinarians upon request of the stable and was found to be lame in its off fore leg.
King Of Leogrance 3rd to Steel Prince – 2020 Geelong Cup
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15
Russian Camelot (16)
Ireland4YO Bay or Brown Horse
Damien Oliver (53.5kg)
Danny O’Brien
Bred in the Northern Hemisphere but locally trained, Russian Camelot is the X-factor in the race and may be somewhat overlooked after two defeats at Group 1 level when favourite. It’s no secret he has been set for this race for a long time, and Danny O’Brien will no doubt have him peaking on Tuesday. His win in the South Australian Derby suggested he is an out-and-out stayer, while his win in the Underwood Stakes over 1800m early in the spring made it look more as though he might be too excellent to be a Cups horse. Damien Oliver knows what it takes to ride a Melbourne Cup winner, and he has been booked for a long time now. Barrier 16 will see the entire settle midfield and chime in at the business end. He does look more effective with his toe in the ground.
Can Russian Camelot win The Cup?
There’s no doubting that he is a top-four chance in this, and he has never been out of the numbers at Group 1 level. Flemington has been his Kryptonite. He’s a leading chance.
Russian Camelot 3rd to Sir Dragonet – 2020 Cox Plate
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16
Steel Prince (21)
Ireland7YO Bay Gelding
William Pike (53.5kg)
Anthony & Sam Freedman
The Geelong Cup winner has been racing terrifically this campaign and looks ready to go over 3200m. The seven-year-old was only a length off Orderofthegarter in the Naturalism before running a close third in the Bart Cummings behind Persan. Geelong Cup winners have a strong record in this race, with two horses completing the double in the last 10 years. William Pike, who is flying of late, hops aboard and will likely snag back from barrier 21. He finished ninth in this race last year but rises 1kg from that run.
Can Steel Prince win The Cup?
The form he is in suggests he can, and Geelong Cup winners do generally go well, but we aren’t convinced he is at this level. The barrier makes it hard too.
Steel Prince wins 2020 Geelong Cup
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17
The Chosen One (5)
New Zealand5YO Bay Horse
Daniel Stackhouse (53.5kg)
Murray Baker & Andrew Forsman
The five-year-old entire surprised many when he ran third to Verry Elleegant and Anthony Van Dyck in the Caulfield Cup, as he was plain in the Underwood and Herbert Power Stakes leading up to it. He was a winner first up at Flemington over 1700m and should appreciate getting back to the big track. He only battled away in this race last year, and he ran a narrow second in the Sydney Cup over the same distance in the autumn, but this is much harder. If he replicates his Caulfield Cup effort, he is a big smokey.
Can The Chosen One win The Cup?
A win seems unlikely, but he maps well and is going well enough to give a strong showing.
The Chosen One 3rd to Verry Elleegant – 2020 Caulfield Cup
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18
Ashrun (24)
France5YO Bay Horse
Declan Bates (53kg)
Andreas Wohler
German import Ashrun will be having his third start in 13 days, after securing his spot in the race with a gritty win in the Lexus Hotham Stakes on Derby Day. After settling last, he flew home under the big weight to get up right on the post. He drops 8kg on Tuesday, which is a big advantage, and will be suited by Flemington once again. He had the flashing light on him at Geelong in his first Australian start, and his Melbourne Cup-winning trainer, Andreas Wohler, has made the trip to Melbourne via hotel quarantine to be there. The son of Authorised hasn’t won beyond 2500m, but he has two placings over 3000m which suggests he’ll get the trip. From the outside alley, Declan Bates will more than likely have him in the last quarter of the field and finishing strongly.
Can Ashrun win The Cup?
The big drop in the weights is a huge plus and makes us think he can. It’ll be a monster effort backing up, replicating only Shocking and Brew in the last 20 years.
Ashrun wins 2020 Hotham Handicap
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19
Warning (8)
Australia4YO Chestnut Gelding
Luke Currie (53kg)
Anthony & Sam Freedman
The 2019 VRC Derby winner gets back to Flemington for only the second time since his win in the 3YO Classic 12 months ago. His run in the Turnbull screamed ‘Melbourne Cup horse’, but he was a tad disappointing in the Caulfield Cup when 12th. He did find the worst part of the track that day and didn’t handle Caulfield, so we are prepared to forgive him there. He is by Declaration of War, who sired Vow And Declare, so he is bred to stay, and does his best racing at Flemington. The 53kg is a big advantage, as he meets Russian Camelot half a kilogram better than when they met in the SA Derby in May. Barrier eight appeals here, as he will get a cozy run and be strong late.
Can Warning win The Cup?
He has been crying out for a trip all prep and looks beautifully placed here. There’s been worse $41 shots, that’s for sure.
Warning 12th to Verry Elleegant – 2020 Caulfield Cup
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20
Etah James (22)
New Zealand8YO Brown Mare
Billy Egan (52.5kg)
Ciaron Maher & David Eustace
Etah James is a genuinely dour stayer who was a winner of the Sydney Cup over this trip in April at a big price. She’s had only two runs this prep, finishing a long way off the winner in the Metropolitan before improving in the Moonee Valley Gold Cup last time out. She’ll be handy to the speed from barrier 22, but we cannot see her in the finish here. She won the Sydney Cup with 51kg and rises to 52.5kg for a much, much tougher race.
Can Etah James win The Cup?
Maybe if she started before Race 1 on Tuesday.
Etah James 4th to Miami Bound – 2020 Moonee Valley Cup
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21
Tiger Moth (23)
Ireland4YO Bay Horse
Kerrin McEvoy (52.5kg)
Aidan O’Brien
Futures punters collectively moaned a sound of disappointment when the ante-post betting favourite drew barrier 23. The Coolmore-owned four-year-old entire from the Aidan O’Brien stable comes to Australia to contest the Melbourne Cup at what will be only his fifth career start. He has oozed class, winning twice and placing at his other two starts, which included a very narrow defeat in the Irish Derby to the Santiago, who was highly rated for this race. He comes off a 4L victory at Leopardstown over 2414m but is yet to race beyond that trip. Kerrin McEvoy snatched up the ride months in advance, which is important to consider. He will get back from the barrier, and if the hype is right, he could just win this.
Can Tiger Moth win The Cup?
While it’s only his fifth career start and he’s drawn poorly, you simply cannot write off the Ballydoyle team when they bring runners to Australia. This horse has been spruiked for a long time now, so yes, he can.
Tiger Moth wins 2020 Kilternan Stakes
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22
Oceanex (17)
New Zealand5YO Bay or Brown Mare
Dean Yendall (51.5kg)
Mick Price & Michael Kent (Jnr)
The locally trained mare was the first horse to pass the ballot after an upset win in the Andrew Ramsden at this track over 2800m in May. Her first three runs were very plain, albeit over undesirable distances, before returning to form when third in the Moonee Valley Gold Cup. She’ll get the trip no worries and will appreciate Flemington and the lightweight. Dean Yendall will go forward on the five-year-old mare from barrier 17 and hope to stick on in the straight.
Can Oceanex win The Cup?
It wouldn’t be the first time she has upset punters, but the only thing we’ll be backing her to beat home is the ambulance. And maybe Etah James.
Oceanex 3rd to Miami Bound – 2020 Moonee Valley Cup
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23
Miami Bound (13)
New Zealand4YO Bay Mare
Daniel Moor (51kg)
Danny O’Brien
The Crown Oaks winner from last year looked as though she was completely shot, failing to deliver anything since her Group 1 victory, but she bounced back in a big way last week. She got the conditions to suit – 2500m and a Heavy track – but she really did bolt in, winning by 2.5L. Trained by Danny O’Brien, she too is an out-and-out stayer who loves Flemington and will eat up two miles. From gate 13, we imagine Daniel Moor will be in the first half and look for cover around the first bend. She might need it wetter though.
Can Miami Bound win The Cup?
Her win in the Moonee Valley Gold Cup was brilliant, but we have to question her opponents. The 3200m at Flemington does suit.
Miami Bound wins 2020 Moonee Valley Cup
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24
Persan (20)
Australian4YO Brown Horse
Michael Dee (51kg)
Ciaron Maher & David Eustace/h5>
Persan has been flying presently, finishing in the quinella in nine of his last 10 starts, which has included four wins at Flemington. The Maher & Eustace team look to have worked this bloke out, keeping him at the staying trips. He was very strong late over 2500m in the Bart Cummings, doing enough to hold out Sound and Steel Prince, who have both franked that form. He drops 4kg off that win and has had a soft time coming into the Cup. Barrier 20 is a concern, but we think Micky Dee will come over from the gate and look to settle in the first half a dozen.
Can Persan win The Cup?
His Flemington form suggests he is a huge chance in this, but we aren’t sure he has beaten all that much with the exception of his latest win.
Persan wins 2020 Bart Cummings
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2020 Melbourne Cup Betting Preview Summary
As is always the case in the Melbourne Cup, it is a wide-open affair and we have struggled to split the top two or three. There’s plenty of winning chances in the race, but we are going to side narrowly with Ashrun after his strong win in the Lexus on Saturday. We are putting plenty of faith in a camp who knows what it takes to train a Melbourne Cup winner, and we think the big weight relief will be huge. He’s rock-hard fit and ready to tackle 3200m. Surprise Baby is our next pick in the race, considering he has been targeted towards this for a long time. Warning is our roughie. Russian Camelot is a consistent horse who also has been set for this and is a huge chance, while Tiger Moth has that big unknown that we aren’t willing to ignore.
2020 Melbourne Cup odds
Key dates for Melbourne Cup field declaration
In 2020, the schedule for the release of nominations are as follows:
- First Nominations – Thursday, August 29
- Late Nominations – Tuesday, September 3
- Handicaps Declared – Tuesday, September 10
- First Declarations – Tuesday, October 8
- Second Declarations – Monday, October 28
- Final Declarations – Saturday, October 31
Background to Melbourne Cup qualification
Forget The Championships and all the other competitors, the true pinnacle of racing in Australia is the Melbourne Spring Carnival.
While there is plenty of fanfare in Melbourne about the Caulfield Cup and the Cox Plate, the true jewel in the crown of spring racing is the time-honoured Melbourne Cup.
A true international race, the Melbourne Cup sees the best staying horses from around the globe bring their talents to the Victorian capital in search of group one glory.
Mid-way through the year the nominations for the Cup are released, and that list is eventually whittled down to 24 on the Saturday prior to Tuesday’s race day.
2019 Melbourne Cup full form guide
No. Silks Horse Trainer Jockey Barrier Weight Odds 1 
Cross Counter Charlie Appleby William Buick 5 57.5kg $13 2 
Mer De Glace Hisashi Shimizu Damian Lane 2 56kg $9 3 
Master Of Reality Joseph O’Brien Frankie Dettori 1 55.5kg $26 4 
Mirage Dancer T Busuttin & N Young Ben Melham 13 55.5kg $34 5 
Southern France C Maher & D Eustace Mark Zahra 14 55.5kg $23 6 
Hunting Horn Aidan O’Brien Seamie Heffernan 11 55kg $46 7 
Latrobe Joseph O’Brien James Mcdonald 13 55kg $46 8 Mustajeer Kris Lees Damien Oliver 6 55kg $21 9 
Rostropovich D & B Hayes & T Dabernig Dwayne Dunn 12 55kg $101 10 
Twilight Payment Joseph O’Brien Hugh Bowman 19 55kg $41 11 
Finche Chris Waller Kerrin McEvoy 4 54kg $41 12 
Prince Of Arran Charlie Fellowes Michael Walker 8 54kg $19 13 
Raymond Tusk Richard Hannon Jamie Spencer 3 54kg $23 14 
Downdraft Joseph O’Brien John Allen 15 53.5kg $20 15 
Magic Wand Aidan O’Brien John Allen 14 53.5kg $19 16 
Neufbosc D & B Hayes & T Dabernig Luke Nolen 23 53.5kg $251 17 
Sound Mike Moroney James Winks 10 53.5kg $126 18 
Surprise Baby Paul Preusker Jordan Childs 20 53.5kg $15 19 
Constantinople D & B Hayes & T Dabernig Joao Moreira 7 52.5kg $10 20 
Il Paradiso Aidan O’Brien Wayne Lordan 17 52.5kg $14 21 
Steel Prince Anthony Freedman Brett Prebble 16 52.5kg $71 22 
The Chosen One M Baker & A Forsman Tim Clark 18 52kg $71 23 
Vow And Declare Dan O’Brien Craig Williams 21 52kg $12 24 
Youngstar Chris Waller Tommy Berry 9 52kg $34 Previous Melbourne Cup full fields, form guide & odds
No. Silks Horse Trainer Jockey Barrier Weight Odds 1 
Best Solution Saeed bin Suroor Pat Cosgrave 6 57.5kg $15 2 
The Cliffsofmoher Aidan O’Brien Ryan Moore 9 56.5kg $17 3 
Magic Circle Ian Williams Corey Brown 17 56kg $8.50 4 
Chestnut Coat Yoshito Yahagi Yuga Kawada 4 55.5kg $9.50 5 
Muntahaa John Gosden Jim Crowley 13 55.5kg $10 6 
Sound Check Mike Moroney Jordan Childs 16 55.5kg $67 7 
Who Shot TheBarman Chris Waller Ben Melham 18 55.5kg $8.50 8 
Ace High David Payne Tye Angland 22 55kg $11 9 
Marmelo Hughie Morrison Hugh Bowman 10 55kg $17 10 
Avilius James Cummings Glyn Schofield 11 54.5kg $13 11 
Yucatan Aidan O’Brien James McDonald 23 54.5kg $4.50 12 
Auvray Richard Freedman Tommy Berry 1 54kg $91 13 
Finche Chris Waller Zac Purton 15 54kg $26 14 
Red Cardinal Darren Weir Damien Oliver 5 54kg $34 15 
Vengeur Masque Mike Moroney Patrick Moloney 2 54kg $67 16 
Ventura Storm Hayes, Hayes & Dabernig Mark Zahra 7 54kg $34 17 
A Prince of Arran Charlie Fellowes Michael Walker 20 53kg $15 18 
Nakeeta Iain Jardine Regan Bayliss 3 53kg $81 19 
Sir Charles Road O’Sullivan & Scott Dwayne Dunn 14 53kg $101 20 
Zacada Forsman & Baker Damien Lane 24 53kg $126 21 
Runaway Waterhouse & Bott Stephen Baster 12 52kg $34 22 
Youngstar Chriss Waller Craig Williams 8 51.5kg $21 23 
Cross Counter Charlie Appleby Kerrin McEvoy 19 51kg $9 24 
Rostropovich Aidan O’Brien Wayne Lordan 21 51kg $21 Runner-by-runner guide for the 2018 Melbourne Cup
1. Best Solution (6) (IRE) $15 Jockey: Pat Cosgrave 57.5kg 
Trainer: Saeed bin Suroor 5yo Bay Horse Best Solution took out the Caulfield Cup in one of the tightest finishes in the race’s history and subsequently didn’t receive a penalty for Tuesday’s big one. It bodes well for a strong run for the Godolphin team. 
2. The Cliffsofmoher (9) (IRE) $17 Jockey: Ryan Moore 56.5kg 
Trainer: Aidan O’Brien (Lloyd Williams) 5yo Bay Horse The Cliffsofmoher has had a sneaky good preparation to the Melbourne Cup, finishing fourth in the Caulfield Stakes before rounding out the placings in the Caulfield Cup. It would read as excellent form in any other year, but Cliffs has flown under the radar heading into Tuesday. 
3. Magic Circle (17) (IRE) $8.50 Jockey: Corey Brown 56kg Trainer: Ian Williams 7yo Bay Gelding Magic Circle is looking to become the second-straight import to win the Melbourne Cup without a start in Australia. The winner of the Group 3 Henry II Stakes in the UK, the gelding is a proven two miler and more than capable of winning the Cup despite the wide draw. 
4. Chestnut Coat (4) (JPN) $9.50 Jockey: Yuga Kawada 55.5kg Trainer: Yoshito Yahagi 5yo Bay Horse Japanese import Chestnut Coat failed to finish inside the first half of the field in this year’s Caulfield Cup and presents as an also-ran in the Melbourne Cup. The horse performed admirably in a pair of group performances in Japan but would need to step it up considerably to be a factor in this one. 
5. Muntahaa (13) (IRE) $10 Jockey: Jim Crowley 55.5kg Trainer: John Gosden 6yo Grey Gelding Another galloper that is making his Australian debut in the Cup, Muntahaa is the Ebor Handicap winner – a key overseas lead-in race. Some pundits have said it wasn’t the strongest Ebor, but winning any Handicap race of that magnitude is no small feat. 
6. Sound Check (16) (GER) $67 Jockey: Jordan Childs 55.5kg Trainer: Michael Moroney 6yo Brown or Black Horse The odds reflect Sound Check’s chances in this one. In his only Australian start Sound Check failed to finish in the top half of the field in the Caulfield Cup. Would need some Prince Of Penzance-style luck to deliver a win in this field. 
7. Who Shot TheBarman (18) (NZ) $8.50 Jockey: Ben Melham 55.5kg Trainer: Chris Waller 10yo Bay Gelding The veteran of the Melbourne Cup and fan favourite Who Shot TheBarman flies the Kiwi flag for Waller in 2018. A stayer with proven two mile ability, the ten-year-old will need to make history to win it but is more than capable of running a cheeky race. 
8. Ace High (22) $61 Jockey: Tye Angland 55kg Trainer: David Payne 4yo Brown or Black Horse Australia’s best hope for a homegrown Cup winner were dashed when Ace High drew barrier 22 for Tuesday’s race. Already up against it considering the calibre of this field, Ace High will struggle massively to be a factor in 2018. 
9. Marmelo (12) $17 Jockey: Hugh Bowman 55kg Trainer: Hughie Morrison 6yo Bay Horse Marmelo is running first-up in the 2018 Melbourne Cup and looks like a terrific prospect. Last year’s ninth placed runner has displayed terrific flat form this year, winning twice and finishing second a further two times over four starts. Under Hughy Bowman we’re anticipating a strong showing. 
10. Avilius (11) (GB) $13 Jockey: Glyn Schofield 54.5kg Trainer: James Cummings 5yo Brown Gelding The Bart Cummings winner Avilius has displayed sensational form throughout 2018 and looks a great chance at decent odds. A fourth placed finish in the Cox Plate at WFA conditions looms as an ideal tune up race and the Godolphin runner should be right in the Cup frame. 
11. Yucatan (23) (IRE) $5.50 Jockey: James McDonald 54.5kg 
Trainer: Aidan O’Brien 5yo Bay Horse Short-priced favourite Yucatan drew a horror barrier for the Melbourne Cup. Still, the Herbert Power Stakes winner’s dominant victory to gain ballot exemption was so strong we’re backing it to overcome the wide draw and be a major player. 
12. Auvray (1) (FR) $91 Jockey: Tommy Berry 54kg Trainer: Richard Freedman 8yo Bay Gelding French import Auvray failed to run in last year’s Cup and we think the Freedman runner will struggle to be a factor in the race that stops a nation. Barrier 1 will be a hindrance and the lead in form doesn’t look ideal. Seek other runners. 
13. Finche (15) (GB) $26 Jockey: Zac Purton 54kg Trainer: Chris Waller 5yo Bay Horse Finche made an impression in his Australian debut, finishing third in Geelong Cup on October 24. The horse looks to be a galloper to keep an eye on going forward but Finche is one of our better bets at odds in this year’s Melbourne Cup. 
14. Red Cardinal (5) (IRE) $34 Jockey: Damien Oliver 54kg Trainer: Darren Weir 7yo Bay Gelding Red Cardinal finished 11th in last year’s Cup and it’d take a massive upswing in fortunes to better that this campaign. The horse switched camps to the Darren Weir stable late last year but he has only managed to finish inside the first half of the field once in five runs. Avoid. 
15. Vengeur Masque (2) (IRE) $67 Jockey: Patrick Moloney 54kg Trainer: Mike Moroney 7yo Bay Gelding Another horse that looks like an also-ran in the Cup, Mike Moroney’s gelding is yet to win in 2018, with a best-placed finish a fourth in a weak Bart Cummings field. Don’t expect anything special in the Cup. 
16. Ventura Storm (18) (IRE) $34 Jockey: Mark Zahra 54kg Trainer: David and Ben Hayes and Tom Dabernig 6yo Bay Gelding The Moonee Valley Gold Cup winner Ventura Storm looms as a strong hope in the big one. The horse will have learned from both runs at Melbourne and Sydney Cup over the last 12 months and we’re backing it to make an impression at odds. 
17. A Prince Of Arran (20) (GB) $15 Jockey: Michael Walker 53kg Trainer: Chris Fellows 6yo Brown Gelding A Prince Of Arran became the last horse to gain ballot exemption into the Cup and he looks a quality hope heading into the big one. If the gelding can handle the short turn around he’s a definite hope in the race that stops a nation. 
18. Nakeeta (3) (GB) $81 Jockey: Regan Bayliss 53kg Trainer: Iain Jardine 8yo Bay Gelding Nakeeta looks like a horse that you can disregard this year. With rookie rider Regan Bayliss taking the ride and lead-in form that leaves a lot to be desired it’s hard to get excited by Nakeeta’s chances. 
19. Sir Charles Road (14) (NZ) $101 Jockey: Dwayne Dunn 53kg Trainer: Lance O’Sullivan & Andrew Scott 5yo Bay Gelding The triple-figure price reflects Sir Charles Road’s chances in the Melbourne Cup this year. Sir Charles Road would have to grow wings to take this out. 
20. Zacada (24) (NZ) $126 Jockey: Damien Lane 53kg Trainer: Murray Baker & Andrew Forsman 6yo Bay Gelding Another Kiwi hope, another triple figure runner, another galloper that has next to no hope. Winning from barrier 24 just doesn’t happen and this horse is no world beater. 
21. Runaway (12) (GB) $34 Jockey: Stephen Baster 52kg Trainer: Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott 4yo BAy or Brown Rig The 2018 Geelong Cup winner registered the win in the Group 3 event with a slashing run from the front. Unlikely to get a similar run in transit and we’re overlooking the Waterhouse and Bott runner. 
22. Youngstar (8) $21 Jockey: Craig Williams 51.5kg Trainer: Chris Waller 4yo Bay Mare Australia’s best chance heading into the Cup. Gets the experienced Craig Williams on board and has arguably the country’s best trainer in Chris Waller preparing the mare, but it may be a bridge too far at this stage of her career. 
23. Cross Coutner (10) (GB) $9 Jockey: Kerrin McEvoy 51kg Trainer: Charlie Appleby 4yo Bay Gelding Debuting in Australia in the Cup, Cross Counter will benefit greatly from a rock-bottom weight. The British invader is well supported in the market but we’re not convinced he is good enough to be taking this Cup out. 
24. Rostropovich (21) (IRE) $21 Jockey: Wayne Lordan 51kg Trainer: Aidan O’Brien 4yo Bay Horse Irish import is the last horse in the Cup and we think his chances reflect his position. A fifth placed finish in a weak Cox Plate field suggest he’ll struggle to be a factor here No. Silks Horse Trainer Jockey Barrier Weight Odds 1 
Hartnell James Cummings Damian Lane 12 57.5kg $31 2 
Almandin Robert Hickmott Frankie Dettori 14 56.5kg $9 3 
Humidor Darren Weir Blake Shinn 13 56kg $11 4 
Tiberian Alain Couetil Oliver Peslier 23 55.5kg $26 5 
Marmelo Hughie Morrison Hugh Bowman 16 55kg $8.50 6 
Red Cardinal Andreas Wohler Kerrin McEvoy 24 55kg $18 7 
Johannes Vermeer Aiden O’Brien Ben Melham 3 54.5kg $9.50 8 
Bondi Beach Robert Hickmott Michael Walker 1 54kg $67 9 
Max Dynamite William Mullins Zac Purton 2 54kg $14 10 
Ventura Storm David & Ben Hayes & Tom Dabernig Glen Boss 6 54kg $34 11
Who Shot ThebarmanChris Waller Tommy Berry 20 54kg SCR 12 
Wicklow Brave William Mullins Stephen Baster 8 54kg $67 13 
Big Duke Darren Weir Brenton Avdulla 5 53.5kg $19 14 
US Army Ranger Joseph O’Brien Jamie Spencer 22 53.5kg $67 15 
Boom Time David & Ben Hayes & Tom Dabernig Cory Parish 9 53kg $34 16 
Gallante Robert Hickmott Michael Dee 18 53kg $91 17 
Libran Chris Waller Dwayne Dunn 7 53kg $41 18 
Nakeeta Iain Jardine Glyn Schofield 19 53kg $41 19 
Single Gaze Nick Olive Kathy O’Hara 11 53kg $41 20 
Wall Of Fire Hugo Palmer Craig Williams 15 53kg $11 21 
Thomas Hobson William Mullins Joao Moreira 21 52kg $19 22 
Rekindling Joseph O’Brien Corey Brown 4 51.5kg $12 23 
Amelie’s Star Darren Weir Dean Yendall 10 51kg $21 24 
Cismontane Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott Beau Mertens 17 50kg $67 Runner-by-runner guide for the 2017 Melbourne Cup
1. Hartnell (12) (GB) $26 Jockey: Damian Lane 57.5kg Trainer: James Cummings 7yo Bay Gelding After wisely bypassing the 2017 Cox Plate and another futile showdown with Winx, Hartnell’s sole focus has been on the Melbourne Cup. The horse unfortunately is not travelling anywhere near as well as last year after finishing ninth in the Caulfield Stakes and it would take a big form reversal to see the Godolphin runner finishing in the placings. 
2. Almandin (14) (GER) $9 Jockey: Frankie Dettori 56.5kg Trainer: Robert Hickmott (Lloyd Williams) 8yo Bay Gelding Forget the last-start run in the Bart Cummings Stakes, Almandin’s frankly remarkable form saw it installed as a false favourite for that race. The fourth-placed finish in that race was enough to suggest the horse will be cherry-ripe heading into the Cup and we believe it’s a great chance to score back-to-back Melbourne Cup victories. It’s drifting in the market with money coming for Marmelo, but he represents a serious winning chance. 
3. Humidor (13) (NZ) $10 Jockey: Blake Shinn 56kg Trainer: Darren Weir 5yo Bay Gelding Humidor didn’t fire in the Caulfield Cup, but the Darren Weir-trained runner looked impressive in the Cox Plate. The former New Zealand runner pushed Winx to within a length in the greatest weight-for-age race in the world. That run should see him in peak order for the Melbourne Cup, but the only concern is whether it can settle well enough over the two mile distance to feature in the finish. 
4. Tiberian (23) (FR) $31 Jockey: Olivier Peslier 55.5kg Trainer: Alain Couetil 6yo Bay Gelding French galloper Tiberian is one of the more versatile horses in the race, and a win in the Melbourne Cup would see it win its third-straight race. Had it not been for an ordinary seventh in the Group One Grand Prix de Saint-Cloud back on July 2, the horse could be hunting for a sixth-straight success. To our eye its the best horse coming down under for the Cup, and while no Australian starts is somewhat of a question mark, we think the horse is going to be well in commission here. 5. Marmelo (16) (GB) $8.50 Jockey: Hugh Bowman 55kg Trainer: Hughie Morrison 5yo Bay Gelding All connections for Marmelo were looking for was a solid tune up run in the Caulfield Cup and that is exactly what they got from the British import. Looking to follow in the footsteps of Protectionist and Americain by winning the Group Two Prix Kergorlay in France before winning the Melbourne Cup in the same year, Marmelo looks well placed to replicate the feats of runners past. The bigger bets have come for Marmelo throughout the week, which now sees it equal favourite with Almandin. 
6. Red Cardinal (24) (IRE) $21 Jockey: Kerrin McEvoy 55kg 
Trainer: Andreas Wohler 6yo Bay Gelding This horse is a difficult one to gauge. Coming out of the same French race as Marmelo, Red Cardinal was never truly in the Prix Kergorlay, which was ran at a snail’s pace. Prior to that however, the horse gained entry into the Cup after a brilliant win in the Group Three Belmont Cup in America. This horse has similar traits to fellow German runner Protectonist, which won the Melbourne Cup back in 2014. In-form jockey Kerrin McEvoy takes the ride and his brilliance will be needed after Red Cardinal received barrier 23. 
7. Johannes Vermeer (3) (IRE) $10 Jockey: Ben Melham 54.5kg Trainer: Aidan O’Brien (Lloyd Williams) 5yo Bay Stallion Johannes Vermeer was never a true winning threat in the Caulfield Cup for us despite what many would have you believe, but the horse is a true Melbourne Cup contender following its strong performance for third. Missing the start and encountering trouble throughout the run, the horse thundered to the line to round out the placings and if he can stay the 3200m distance, he’s right in the Melbourne Cup mix. 
8. Bondi Beach (1) (IRE) $67 Jockey: Michael Walker 54kg Trainer: Robert Hickmott (Lloyd Williams) 6yo Bay Stallion Bondi Beach is clearly past its best and its form leading into the 2017 Melbourne Cup has been anything but extraordinary. Robert Hickmott will try work his magic on the six-year-old, but the odds tell the full story. 
9. Max Dynamite (2) (FR) $15 Jockey: Zac Purton 54kg Trainer: Willie Mullins 8yo Bay Gelding After avoiding the Cup last year, Max Dyanmite is looking to replicate the form which saw it finish second in the 2015 edition to shock winner Prince Of Penzance. A last-start win in Killarney convinced Willie Mullins to bring the horse back, but the horse did not beat a lot in that race as a $1.45 favourite. Too short for our liking and we’ll be avoiding the French import. 
10. Ventura Storm (6) (IRE) $35 Jockey: Glenn Boss 54kg Trainer: David & Ben Hayes & Tom Dabernig 5yo Bay Stallion The Caulfield Cup run for Irish runner Ventura Storm was described as “disappointing” by jockey Damien Oliver, and after a bit of hype around the horse, punters have jumped off. Olly also said the horse’s mind “wasn’t on the job” in the Caulfield feature, which concerns us too. Looms as a horse simply making up the numbers and there hasn’t been any money for it. 11. Who Shot TheBarman (20)(NZ)SCRATCHED Jockey: Tommy Berry 54kg Trainer: Chris Waller 9yo Bay Gelding Withdrawn Sunday 5th November 2017 with an elevated temperature. 
12. Wicklow Brave (8) (GB) $61 Jockey: Stephen Baster 54kg Trainer: Willie Mullins 9yo Bay Gelding While not the most eye-catching of runs in the Caulfield Cup, Wicklow Brave got through the race unscathed. Jockey Joao Moreira commented that the horse copped interference which could have seen it finish closer to the place-getters. Looms as another that will be simply making up the numbers, but it might attract punters wanting their shot at glory. 
13. Big Duke (5) (IRE) $19 Jockey: Brenton Avdulla 53.5kg Trainer: Darren Weir 6yo Bay Gelding Winning the re-instated St Leger at Randwick was a huge tick for Big Duke, which will come in well prepared for the Melbourne Cup. The horse has proven it can compete well at the journey after placing in the Group One Sydney Cup and will benefit greatly from being an overseas raider that has had all year to get used to the Australian conditions. He might be tested at this distance and he possesses a good turn-of-foot, but the odds are appealing. 
14. US Army Ranger (22) (IRE) $61 Jockey: Jamie Spencer 53.5kg Trainer: Joseph O’Brien (Lloyd Williams) 5yo Bay Gelding Last year we would have given the horse a huge chance of being competitive here, but as a four-year-old US Army Ranger has been been less than stellar. Finishing dead last in two of its last four races, the horse has failed to win May of 2016. We are more than happy to let others invest here as there are better betting opportunities available. 
15. Boom Time (9) (AUS) $31 Jockey: Cory Parish 53kg Trainer: David & Ben Hayes & Tom Dabernig 6yo Bay Gelding The Hayes and Daberning-runner received a 1kg penalty following its stunning win in the Caulfield Cup. Could lightning strike twice? Unlikely but no one gave it a chance at Caulfield either and he’s a tough customer which will lope along and see out the distance. 
16. Gallante (18) (IRE) $126 Jockey: Michael Dee 53kg Trainer: Robert Hickmott (Lloyd Williams) 7yo Bay Gelding Seven-year-old which hasn’t run a good race in some time. Unsure why it’s in the field as it doesn’t even represent an outside chance. We’d be surprised to see the stayer finish in the first half of the field. 
17. Libran (7) (IRE) $51 Jockey: Dwayne Dunn 53kg Trainer: Chris Waller 7yo Brown Gelding Libran ran on well behind Who Shot Thebarman in the Moonee Valley Cup, but the Chris Waller-trained runner only battled in the St Leger and The Metropolitan in Sydney. Its win in the Kingston Town was good enough to see it finish close to the firs four here, but we believe his best chances would come on a slow surface. 
18. Nakeeta (19) (GB) $41 Jockey: Glyn Schofield 53kg Trainer: Iain Jardine 7yo Bay Gelding Looms as an over the odds horse for our liking. Was given a gun ride in an unusually weak Ebor Handicap at York to take the race out, but the most startling thing out of that race has been horses inability to win following that event. Prior to that Ebor win, the horse had not won since 2015. Would need to improvement considerably to be a contender here and drawing wide hasn’t done it any favours. 
19. Single Gaze (11) (AUS) $41 Jockey: Kathy O’Hara 53kg Trainer: Nick Olive 5yo Chestnut Mare A massive run in the Caulfield Cup will see punters invest on the horse coming into the Melbourne Cup, but we think your money is better spent elsewhere. The horse has ran just once at Flemington, yielding a fifth placed finish in the Bart Cummings Stakes. A good, honest competitor that will be outclassed here. 
20. Wall Of Fire (15) (IRE) $13 Jockey: Craig Williams 53kg Trainer: Hugo Palmer 5yo Bay Stallion Wall Of Fire has had one run since coming to Australia from Ireland, finishing second in Group Two Herbert Power Stakes. That run was enough to earn it a start in the Melbourne Cup and punters have come for him. He’s been one of the best backed runners in the field and having Craig Williams in the saddle at a light weight will give it every chance. 
21. Thomas Hobson (21) (GB) $17 Jockey: Joao Moreira 52kg Trainer: Willie Mullins 9yo Bay Gelding Thomas Hobson isn’t a desired pick for the 2017 Melbourne Cup as its best form comes over the hurdles, but the international runners should be respected and it could run in the top 10. 
22. Rekindling (4) (GB) $12 Jockey: Corey Brown 51.5kg Trainer: Joseph O’Brien (Lloyd Williams) 5yo Bay Gelding How this horse has settled in Australia following a journey from the UK is the big unknown factor here. Running a cracking fourth in the St Leger was a massive effort after encountering trouble, and the form suggests it is one of the horses to beat here. Again, it comes down to how well the horse aclimitises in Australia and how it works at its Werribee base. 
23. Amelie’s Star (10) (AUS) $18 Jockey: Dean Yendall 51kg Trainer: Darren Weir 6yo Bay Mare The Bart Cummings Stakes winner was a chief contender in the Caulfield Cup, but following a puzzling decision from Craig Williams to steer the horse to the front, Amelie’s Star failed to fire and finished at the tail end of the field. Williams said the horse “had to use petrol to get there” and was gallant under the circumstances. A better draw will help but we think the horse will struggle to be competitive in the big one. 
24. Cismontane (17) (AUS) $61 Jockey: Beau Mertens 50kg Trainer: Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott 5yo Bay Gelding Cismontane was a gutsy winner of the Lexus Stakes, but that hasn’t been a great form guide since Shocking won the Melbourne Cup in 2009. There’s no denying its talent and its will to win, but we can’t have it finishing in the placings against some of the more seasoned Europeans.
Melbourne Cup Betting Guides
- Melbourne Cup Odds Comparison
- Melbourne Cup Finishing Order
- Melbourne Cup Betting Guide
- Melbourne Cup Order of Entry
- Melbourne Cup Betting Tips
Place Your Bets
STRATUM ALBION
TIGER MOTH
SURPRISE BABY
My three against the field. Stratum form is very close to Tiger Moth and is five times the odds. I think nailed on each way bet.