Bauer is set to tackle the Geelong Cup in preparation for another crack at the Melbourne Cup following his superb victory at Haydock on Saturday.
The eight-year-old won the Geelong Cup in 2008 before being beaten just a nose in the Flemington highlight, and also made the journey Down Under in 2010, only to be scratched at the 11th hour from the Melbourne Cup due to injury.
He showed his class remains intact by claiming the Old Borough Cup on Merseyside, but a modest Cumani is refusing to take any credit.
“I’m absolutely delighted for the horse. I’ve done nothing and he’s done it all himself – he’s a true pro,” said Cumani.
“I was glad to see that he retains all of his enthusiasm and he clearly retains plenty of ability as well.
“The owners are discussing whether he will go back to Australia. It’s up to them whether they want to take a chance or not.
“He’s travelled there twice, so we are not worried about that.
“The decision just hinges on the risk-versus-reward ratio.”
Reports in Australia suggest that Bauer will indeed be on his travels again.
Terry Henderson of the part-owning OTI Racing syndicate, told The Age: “That form from 2008 has all lapsed now so he has to re-qualify for the Melbourne Cup and unfortunately (Saturday’s) race did not do that.
“That means we’ll have to go back to the Geelong Cup to try to earn his spot.
“We were delighted with his effort. He looked like the Bauer of old the way he ran home.”
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