The hopes and dreams of connections in Melbourne Cup entrant Bur Dubai go on the line at Flemington.
The Mick Price and Michael Kent Jnr-trained Bur Dubai is down to run in the Group 3 Archer Stakes (2500m) on Saturday.
Success in the race provides the winner a ballot exemption into the Group 1 Melbourne Cup (3200m) at Flemington on November 7.
Bur Dubai is part-owned by the MyRacehorse No 1 syndicate which has a large supporter base.
Price said it was exciting to have a large array of owners in Bur Dubai all keen to be a part of the Melbourne Cup story.
“There’s only around 8000 people waiting for a shot at the Cup,” Price joked.
Being realistic, Price is of the opinion Bur Dubai deserves his shot at Saturday’s race after two solid runs to open his Cup campaign at Moonee Valley.
Price said Bur Dubai may be a run short of full fitness but added a step up to 2500m would not harm the gelding after finishing seventh first-up over 1600m before running a closing second over 2040m at Moonee Valley on August 23.
“He goes to the Archer and has not put a foot wrong this time in,” Price said.
“He has got a big, clean-winded tank on him that horse, and I think he’ll show up, it’s just a matter if he’s good enough.
“Training-wise, we are sailing through unincumbered by any issues. He’s a happy horse.
“He’s very fit, and he doesn’t carry a lot of body weight on him at this point of his career.”
Bur Dubai started his career in Europe and was successful over 2514m at Chester before making his way to Australia.
At his second outing for Price and Kent Jnr, Bur Dubai chased home Revelare, an opponent on Saturday, over 2000m at Flemington in March before going on to win over 2500m at The Valley.
“I think getting back to the bigger track will suit him,” Price said.
If Saturday does not work out for Bur Dubai, the Group 3 The Bart Cummings (2500m) at Flemington on October 4 is likely to be the gelding’s next assignment.
