The Final Field for the 2021 Melbourne Cup has been released and we have 24 quality stayers set to line-up in this years edition of the race that stops a nation.
We take a look at each of the 24 horses in the Melbourne Cup Field and we provide Video Form for each of them including the International horses in the field.
The best way to find the Melbourne Cup winner is to watch each of the horses lead-up runs heading into the race and luckily for you we have done all the hard work to find these races and list them below.
Melbourne Cup 💰: View our TIPS for the Melbourne Cup
1. Twilight Payment
Odds 💰: $12.00
Breeding: Teofilo x Dream On Buddy
Trainer: Joseph O’Brien
Jockey: Jye McNeil
Weight: 58kg
Barrier: 2
Career Stats: 36: 9-11-8
Min/Max Distance Wins: 2414m/3218m
Career Best Win: Melbourne Cup, November 3 2020, Flemington, Good Surface
Dry Track Stats: 18: 4-7-2
Wet Track Stats: 18: 5-4-6
Short Summary: He won last year and overall, is facing a field weaker compared to 12 months ago.
Gold Cup (4014m), June 17 2021, Royal Ascot, Clockwise Direction, Good Surface
This was a brutally run affair won by the leader Subjectivist, who was given a 12/10 front running steer by Joe Fanning and was miles too good. Twilight Payment had his heart broken and just didn’t run the trip out.
Irish St Leger Trial (2816m), August 13 2021, Curragh, Clockwise Direction, Soft Surface
Dropped back in grade/depth/distance and bounced back to his best, sitting on speed throughout and finding plenty under pressure to get the job done in his first win since the Melbourne Cup.
Irish St Leger (2816m), September 12 2021, Curragh, Clockwise Direction, Good Surface
Sat on speed for most of the run before taking the lead early on in the straight where he was strongly challenged by Ebor winner Sonnyboyliston. Those two had a great struggle, with the latter getting the verdict, just, in what was a high class race.
Final Summary: History says it is very difficult to win back-to-back Cups. But history also once said you couldn’t win the race without a lead up run in Australia and that has been smashed in recent years. Times are changing and he is finding form at the right time. Has a good racing pattern and is tough. He’ll be hard to beat even allowing for the weight.
2. Incentivise
Odds 💰: $2.80
Breeding: Shamus Award x Miss Argyle
Trainer: Peter Moody
Jockey: Brett Prebble
Weight: 57kg
Barrier: 16
Career Stats: 12: 9-0-0
Min/Max Distance Wins: 1600m/2500m
Career Best Win: Caulfield Cup, October 16 2021, Caulfield, Soft Surface
Dry Track Stats: 7: 4-0-0
Wet Track Stats: 5: 5-0-0
Short Summary: If it wasn’t for the internationals, he could easily be odds on. He’s the one to beat.
Makybe Diva Stakes (1600m), September 11 2021, Flemington, Anti-Clockwise Direction, Good Surface
Gee this was a great win. Admittedly, the initiative from Prebble to lead did help greatly, but that said, he was first up and there to be run down, but found plenty under pressure and was much too good over a trip clearly short of his best.
Turnbull Stakes (2000m), October 2 2021, Flemington, Anti-Clockwise Direction, Soft Surface
Brilliant performance from the front and this stamped him as clearly the one to beat in the Caulfield Cup. Led, copped pressure but he found and on the line, was holding his rivals and getting away from them in an outstanding win.
Caulfield Cup (2400m), October 16 2021, Caulfield, Anti-Clockwise Direction, Soft Surface
Stunning, stunning win. Prebble made the move 1000m out, coming three wide, ensuring that there would be no bad luck. But it was just the arrogance of applying the pressure before the turn, then sustaining the gallop…can definitely understand why he’s the one to beat on Tuesday.
Final Summary: History says no. Very rare to see the double successfully done. Makybe Diva is the only horse this century to carry 57kg+ and win on the first Tuesday in November. But with the greatest respect to the field, there is a lot of dead wood to this final field and it seems the longer the race goes, the better he gets. He’s the one they have to beat.
3. Spanish Mission
Odds 💰: $10.00
Breeding: Noble Mission x Limonar
Trainer: Andrew Balding
Jockey: Craig Williams
Weight: 57kg
Barrier: 14
Career Stats: 18: 6-4-3
Min/Max Distance Wins: 2012m/3600m
Career Best Win: Belmont Derby, September 7 2019, Belmont Park, Good Surface
Dry Track Stats: 16: 5-4-3
Wet Track Stats: 2: 1-0-0
Short Summary: Brings his UK form down under, he’s hard to beat despite an injury concern.
Yorkshire Cup (2787m), May 14 2021, York, Anti-Clockwise Direction, Good Surface
Lot of class/quality about this win. Had to be shoved along to get into his work later in the race but as the race went on, he got better and was dominant, beating a high class animal in Santiago, so the form is very strong.
Gold Cup (4014m), June 17 2021, Royal Ascot, Clockwise Direction, Good Surface
Mighty in defeat behind a world class stayer, Subjectivist. Loomed as some sort of threat at the top of the straight but the eventual winner stole a winning break and held a safe margin. Spanish Mission stayed on to run third and actually beat home Stradivarius.
Lonsdale Cup (3269m), August 20 2021, York, Anti-Clockwise Direction, Good Surface
It’s in the mix for race of the year. Wonderful clash between two class stayers, and as champions do, they find a way to lift and that was the case for Stradivarius in an epic battle up the straight. Spanish Mission was all over a winner but the champ dug in when required.
Final Summary: I was keen on him running well in the race last year but connections decided to wait another 12 months, get his rating properly up, have that hardened experience against the big boys and I think it’s been the making of him. If he brings what he has produced to date in the UK down under, he’s hard to beat.
4. Verry Elleegant
Odds 💰: $16.00
Breeding: Zed x Opulence
Trainer: Chris Waller
Jockey: James McDonald
Weight: 57kg
Barrier: 9
Career Stats: 33: 14-7-3
Min/Max Distance Wins: 1400m/2400m
Career Best Win: Caulfield Cup, October 17 2020, Caulfield, Good Surface
Dry Track Stats: 14: 3-4-1
Wet Track Stats: 19: 11-3-2
Short Summary: Champion mare who can confirm all time great status with a win here.
George Main Stakes (1600m), September 18 2021, Randwick, Clockwise Direction, Soft Surface
She was helped by the bias, make no mistake of that, but I think credit has to go towards her as well. She was a month between runs and had to change course a couple of times, so it wasn’t as if it was on a platter for her. I thought the win had merit and the form since has been solid.
Turnbull Stakes (2000m), October 2 2021, Flemington, Anti-Clockwise Direction, Soft Surface
600m out, it was no betting. She was just going to win and win comfortably. But as soon as Lane went for her, she found little and went back to her old ways of wanting to lay in under pressure, throwing away any chance of a win behind a superstar.
Cox Plate (2040m), October 23 2021, Moonee Valley, Anti-Clockwise Direction, Soft Surface
I thought it was a super ride from Lane. He tracked up with the mare beautifully and on the turn, she looked like she was going to win. But she just flattened out when let down and whacked away for third, looking like a mare that wants more ground.
Final Summary: If this track was heavy, she’d be a clear top pick. She’s the proven WFA big time performer and IMO, she’s a champion. Tried her heart out in the Cox Plate and as well as Lane rode, J Mac jumping on is a big, big tick and she has shown she is capable on dry ground. I wouldn’t be surprised if she won and cements her place as an all time great.
5. Explosive Jack
Odds 💰: $35.00
Breeding: Jakkalberry x Extra Explosive
Trainer: Ciaron Maher/David Eustace
Jockey: John Allen
Weight: 54kg
Barrier: 4
Career Stats: 12: 5-1-2
Min/Max Distance Wins: 1600m/2500m
Career Best Win: ATC Derby, April 10 2021, Randwick, Soft Surface
Dry Track Stats: 5: 2-0-2
Wet Track Stats: 7: 3-1-0
Short Summary: His Caulfield Cup run was plain. Flemington, dry track, he can improve. Improve enough to win? I’m saying no.
Makybe Diva Stakes (1600m), September 11 2021, Flemington, Anti-Clockwise Direction, Good Surface
On face value, it was just a run. But given the race shape, he had no chance, with the winner running sub 34 from the front the last 600m. Explosive Jack was a definite pass mark given the set up.
Turnbull Stakes (2000m), October 2 2021, Flemington, Anti-Clockwise Direction, Soft Surface
Excellent run I thought. Run off his legs early off a fast speed but he picked up in the straight and was warming to the task with purpose when a closing fifth to Incentivise in a good tune up for the Cups.
Caulfield Cup (2400m), October 16 2021, Caulfield, Anti-Clockwise Direction, Soft Surface
Too bad to be true I thought. I was keen on him running well here but he failed to fire a shot and was never a threat at any stage, a beaten horse 600m out, even further out. Disappointing.
Final Summary: Prior to the Caulfield Cup, I had him as #1 seed for the locals for the Melbourne Cup. But that run was just terrible. Can you forgive a good horse for one poor run? If you can, you’re getting a good price to find out. I can see him running in the top ten. But that last start I can’t ignore and I can’t entertain him as a winning chance.
6. The Chosen One
Odds 💰: $41.00
Breeding: Savabeel x The Glitzy One
Trainer: Murray Baker/Andrew Forsman
Jockey: Damian Lane
Weight: 54kg
Barrier: 5
Career Stats: 35: 6-5-3
Min/Max Distance Wins: 1400m/2400m
Career Best Win: Herbert Power, October 12 2019, Caulfield, Good Surface
Dry Track Stats: 22: 6-4-0
Wet Track Stats: 13: 0-1-3
Short Summary: Ran well in this race last year and is going better 12 months on. Just the wet track concerns me.
Underwood Stakes (1800m), September 25 2021, Sandown, Anti-Clockwise Direction, Good Surface
Given the race shape, he had little chance of winning, but was far from disgraced in defeat when a closing fourth Zaaki. Probabeel, who ran second, won the Might And Power on Saturday, so the form has been ticked off.
Herbert Power (2400m), October 9 2021, Caulfield, Anti-Clockwise Direction, Good Surface
Really good tune up run. He got back in the run, using this as more or less a barrier trial for the Caulfield Cup. He worked home with purpose to finish second to Delphi and off this run, he’s definitely heading into the big race in good form.
Caulfield Cup (2400m), October 16 2021, Caulfield, Anti-Clockwise Direction, Soft Surface
He got back in the run and was never really a winning threat, just whacking away out the back, but beaten some 11 lengths by Incentivise in a plain effort.
Final Summary: He is a dead set dry track horse, so pen the Caulfield Cup effort. He was good in the Herbert Power…but can he improve out of sight and trouble Incentivise? On exposed form, it’s a no.
7. Delphi
Odds 💰: $19.00
Breeding: Galileo x Bye Bye Birdie
Trainer: Team Freedman
Jockey: Damien Oliver
Weight: 53.5kg
Barrier: 3
Career Stats: 10: 5-1-0
Min/Max Distance Wins: 1609m/2816m
Career Best Win: Herbert Power, October 9 2021, Caulfield, Good Surface
Dry Track Stats: 7: 4-1-0
Wet Track Stats: 3: 1-0-0
Short Summary: Arrogant winner of the Herbert Power. Is there petrol left in the tank?
Naturalism Stakes (2000m), September 18 2021, Caulfield, Anti-Clockwise Direction, Good Surface
Another stride and he wins. Excellent second up effort, just missing out on picking up Nonconformist, who has franked the form in the Might And Power and overall, the form out of this race has been quite strong.
Herbert Power (2400m), October 9 2021, Caulfield, Anti-Clockwise Direction, Good Surface
Arrogant win. Ridden like he was the best horse in the race and duly bolted up, with something in hand, I dare say keeping in mind the Caulfield Cup on the horizon. Lovely tune up for the big race.
Caulfield Cup (2400m), October 16 2021, Caulfield, Anti-Clockwise Direction, Soft Surface
Market loved him as the main threat to Incentivise. Got a soft time of it early but that horse just broke his heart from the 1000m mark and Delphi spat the dummy out when a beaten horse.
Final Summary: Arrogant win in the Herbert Power. Ridden like he was the best horse in the race and duly saluted. The Caulfield Cup run though is the concerning factor because he was a beaten horse a fair way out and didn’t show much fight. Petrol tank might well be empty.
8. Ocean Billy
Odds 💰: $71.00
Breeding: Ocean Park x Cool Storm
Trainer: Chris Waller
Jockey: Damien Thornton
Weight: 53.5kg
Barrier: 13
Career Stats: 25: 7-1-1
Min/Max Distance Wins: 1400m/3200m
Career Best Win: Auckland Cup, March 13 2021, Ellerslie, Good Surface
Dry Track Stats: 14: 6-0-1
Wet Track Stats: 11: 1-1-0
Short Summary: He wasn’t terrible in the Caulfield Cup, but needs to improve big time.
Auckland Cup (3200m), March 13 2021, Ellerslie, Clockwise Direction, Good Surface
This is what he is capable of when getting dry ground out in trip. Admittedly this was two miles, but he was a strong winner and did beat Sir Charles Road, a horse who has run well in Australia previously, so the form isn’t the worst.
Handicap (1600m), October 1 2021, Te Rapa, Anti-Clockwise Direction, Soft Surface
Pretty much a prep run after a couple of down the track efforts in WFA races. Lumped 60kg and was beaten just over a length in a good effort for a horse that is clearly better suited over further.
(Replay Unavailable)
Caulfield Cup (2400m), October 16 2021, Caulfield, Anti-Clockwise Direction, Soft Surface
He was 1600m to 2400m in two weeks and didn’t disgrace himself despite being the rank outsider. Finished midfield, which was certainly above market expectation.
Final Summary: Auckland Cup winner so a staying trip will be no issue. The issue is the class. The NZ form, overall, is rank. The saving grace is that he is with Chris Waller. Wouldn’t be totally shocked if he ran top ten, but looking elsewhere.
9. Selino
Odds 💰: $61.00
Breeding: Champs Elysses x Air Kiss
Trainer: Chris Waller
Jockey: Ron Stewart
Weight: 53.5kg
Barrier: 24
Career Stats: 20: 3-5-2
Min/Max Distance Wins: 2815m/3328m
Career Best Win: Sydney Cup, April 17 2021, Randwick, Good Surface
Dry Track Stats: 11: 3-4-1
Wet Track Stats: 9: 0-1-1
Short Summary: He is big odds for a horse who closed off last start like a horse wanting two miles. One of the better outsiders in the race.
Kingston Town Stakes (2000m), September 18 2021, Randwick, Clockwise Direction, Soft Surface
He was second up here and given the way the track played, which was against his pattern, I thought his run was a definite pass mark on wet ground, something he traditionally doesn’t fancy. Montefilia franked this form in the Metropolitan.
Bart Cummings (2520m), October 2 2021, Flemington, Anti-Clockwise Direction, Soft Surface
This run confirmed he’s ticking along nicely for the Melbourne Cup. Sat near a strong speed with the big weight and battled on really well when fourth to Grand Promenade. This was a high rating race relative to the meeting.
Caulfield Cup (2400m), October 16 2021, Caulfield, Anti-Clockwise Direction, Soft Surface
On paper, it was a nothing run, but watching the replay and the sectionals, his finale was screaming of a horse wanting further and a bigger track. His late splits were pretty good for the race.
Final Summary: Looked on track after the Bart Cummings. Then came back in trip for Caulfield Cup and that was more or less a barrier trial for this. If there is one horse from the Caulfield Cup behind Incentivise I can warm to as a knockout chance, it’s this guy. Dry track yes, 3200m yes, big track yes…I think he only runs well.
10. Johnny Get Angry
Odds 💰: $101.00
Breeding: Tavistock x Luminova
Trainer: Denis Pagan
Jockey: Lachlan King
Weight: 53kg
Barrier: 22
Career Stats: 11: 1-1-2
Min/Max Distance Wins: 2500m/2500m
Career Best Win: Victoria Derby, October 31 2020, Flemington, Good Surface
Dry Track Stats: 5: 1-0-0
Wet Track Stats: 6: 0-1-2
Short Summary: Beaten 48.3L his past two…on form, it would be the greatest upset in Australian sporting history if he wins.
Makybe Diva Stakes (1600m), September 11 2021, Moonee Valley, Anti-Clockwise Direction, Good Surface
He was first up since the Derby so wasn’t expected to do a great deal. He was beaten just six lengths, but that was due to the very slow tempo, set by the eventual winner, Incentivise.
Turnbull Stakes (2000m), October 2 2021, Flemington, Anti-Clockwise Direction, Soft Surface
They went stupid in front, but Incentivise just ate up the pressure and was too good. This guy spat the dummy out well and truly and finished tailed off last.
Geelong Cup (2400m), October 20 2021, Geelong, Anti-Clockwise Direction, Good Surface
This was the run that would truly determine where he is at…well he’s at you know what creek. Near the speed but like the Turnbull, as soon as it came to crunch time, he went backwards.
Final Summary: There is conjecture about his place in the field. On current form, he is well and truly dead wood in this field. But he is a Group l winner so in that regard, he deserves his spot in the field. Good luck to all concerned, but I doubt he beats a runner home.
11. Knights Order
Odds 💰: $126.00
Breeding: So You Think x Lamanka Lass
Trainer: Gai Waterhouse/Adrian Bott
Jockey: Daniel Stackhouse
Weight: 53kg
Barrier: 9
Career Stats: 21: 7-0-2
Min/Max Distance Wins: 1990m/3200m
Career Best Win: Brisbane Cup, June 12 2021, Eagle Farm, Good Surface
Dry Track Stats: 12: 4-0-2
Wet Track Stats: 9: 3-0-0
Short Summary: There’s conjecture about Johnny Get Angry in the field…this guy has a case to have the same microscope put on him. He’s going awful.
Bart Cummings (2520m), October 2 2021, Flemington, Anti-Clockwise Direction, Soft Surface
Was near a strong speed throughout set by Pondus but as soon as the pressure came on, he folded and failed to fire a shot in a very disappointing effort behind Grand Promenade.
Geelong Cup (2400m), October 20 2021, Geelong, Anti-Clockwise Direction, Good Surface
Like the Bart Cummings. Near the speed throughout but when the foot was put down, he spat the dummy out and dropped out to finish nearly ten lengths away from Tralee Rose.
Hotham Stakes (2500m), October 30 2021, Flemington, Anti-Clockwise Direction, Good Surface
Attempted to lead throughout in the final lead up. Gave a mini kick but like the previous runs, quickly dropped out when a beaten horse, and was disappointing yet again.
Final Summary: I have him on par with Johnny Get Angry. He’s dead set no chance on recent form. He is a winner at two miles though, which is a tick…that’s the only real tick I can find for him.
12. Persan
Odds 💰: $31.00
Breeding: Pierro x Ofcourseican
Trainer: Ciaron Maher/David Eustace
Jockey: Luke Currie
Weight: 53kg
Barrier: 11
Career Stats: 27: 7-5-3
Min/Max Distance Wins: 1600m/2510m
Career Best Win: Bart Cummings, October 3 2020, Flemington, Good Surface
Dry Track Stats: 16: 3-4-2
Wet Track Stats: 11: 4-1-1
Short Summary: Gee he fought on gamely in the Caulfield Cup and did run well in this race last year. Top ten prospect.
Handicap (1700m), September 11 2021, Flemington, Anti-Clockwise Direction, Good Surface
Good return from him. Had a good run in transit near the speed and was presented to win. But, first up with 61kg, his condition just gave way late and felt the pinch when third to stablemate Floating Artist.
Turnbull Stakes (2000m), October 2 2021, Flemington, Anti-Clockwise Direction, Soft Surface
He couldn’t match it with them given the sharp tempo set. Incentivise was the lone survivor and made a mess of them. Persan tried hard but he had enough 300m out and battled late. Whether this run will bust him or toughen him up, time will tell.
Caulfield Cup (2400m), October 16 2021, Caulfield, Anti-Clockwise Direction, Soft Surface
He was one of the better runs in the race behind Incentivise. Delphi spat the dummy out, but this guy just found and kept finding to fight on bravely for third.
Final Summary: He was the story of the Spring last year, going on to run so well in the Melbourne Cup. 12 months on, is he going as good? After the Turnbull, it was a no, but the Caulfield Cup effort sees him back on track and this stable at 2400m+, he’s not getting dismissed.
13. Carif
Odds 💰: $151.00
Breeding: So You Think x Norzita
Trainer: Team Snowden
Jockey: Blaike McDougall
Weight: 52.5kg
Barrier: 8
Career Stats: 37: 3-8-1
Min/Max Distance Wins: 1850m/3200m
Career Best Win: Sandown Cup, November 14 2020, Sandown, Good Surface
Dry Track Stats: 25: 3-6-0
Wet Track Stats: 12: 0-2-1
Short Summary: He brings different form…but it’s ordinary different form.
Hill Stakes (2000m), October 2 2021, Randwick, Clockwise Direction, Good Surface
On paper, he ran last, did nothing. But given the winner ran around 33.5 for the last 600m, those from the back had zero chance, including this guy. Pen the run.
St Leger (2600m), October 16 2021, Randwick, Clockwise Direction, Soft Surface
He was kept safe at around $10. Had a suck run behind the speed and was there to be a winning threat, but failed to finish it off when fourth to a former Cup runner, Warning.
City Tatts Cup (2400m), October 23 2021, Randwick, Clockwise Direction, Good Surface
They rode him cold from the wide gate, I dare say with eyes on Tuesday given he was pretty much assured a run. He was never really a winning factor, but did make up ground and was sound.
Final Summary: It’s a great reward with Blaike McDougall steering. He has been a form rider for a couple of years and has made waves during the Melbourne Spring. That’s the only positive I can find for the horse. On form, he’ll really struggle. The saving grace is that he’s proven at 3200m on a firm deck.
14. Master Of Wine
Odds 💰: $91.00
Breeding: Maxios x Magma
Trainer: Team Hawkes
Jockey: Fred Kersley
Weight: 52.5kg
Barrier: 6
Career Stats: 28: 5-5-4
Min/Max Distance Wins: 1400m/2400m
Career Best Win: Sky High Stakes, March 14 2020, Rosehill, Heavy Surface
Dry Track Stats: 14: 3-3-2
Wet Track Stats: 14: 2-2-2
Short Summary: Improved effort in the Bart Cummings, fair in he Caulfield Cup…not for me.
Kingston Town Stakes (2000m), September 18 2021, Randwick, Clockwise Direction, Soft Surface
He really had no chance the way the track played, suiting those on speed/rail, but that aside, I thought his run was still a bit on the plain side, not attacking the line with any real purpose.
Bart Cummings (2520m), October 2 2021, Flemington, Anti-Clockwise Direction, Soft Surface
Much, much better run from him here. Little unlucky as well, finishing off strongly between runners to finish third to Grand Promenade. A clear improvement on what he has done to date this prep.
Caulfield Cup (2400m), October 16 2021, Caulfield, Anti-Clockwise Direction, Soft Surface
He was a mile back in the run and never really a threat but did make up some ground, so he wasn’t totally hopeless despite being beaten a distance.
Final Summary: He was going like a complete busted but his run in the Bart Cummings had good merit to it. Then just too far back and never a factor in the Caulfield Cup. I can’t see him threatening.
15. Pondus
Odds 💰: $23.00
Breeding: Sea The Moon x Diablerette
Trainer: Rob Hickmott
Jockey: Rachel King
Weight: 52kg
Barrier: 1
Career Stats: 19: 3-7-1
Min/Max Distance Wins: 2002m/2389m
Career Best Win: Lenebane Stakes, July 7 2020, Rosscommon, Soft Surface
Dry Track Stats: 9: 1-4-1
Wet Track Stats: 10: 2-3-0
Short Summary: I think he’s ticking along really nicely and has the right colours to give this a shake.
Queen Elizabeth Stakes (2600m) November 7 2020, Flemington, Anti-Clockwise Direction, Good Surface
Just beaten by a Bowman gem aboard True Self. Pondus did get a bit keen in the run and I reckon that took something away from his finale. And also in hindsight, this race was more an afterthought given he missed out on a Melbourne Cup berth. Still, a run full of merit.
Curragh Cup (2816m), June 27 2021, Curragh, Clockwise Direction, Good Surface
Definite pass mark in his first run for 2021. It was essentially a barrier trial for him. Got back off the speed, let the leader/winner do as it pleased in front and was miles too good. Pondis did a good job to get as close as he did.
Bart Cummings (2520m), October 2 2021, Flemington, Anti-Clockwise Direction, Soft Surface
First up here and gee I thought he was brave on speed. Set a very good speed and was entitled to drop right away but he only felt the pinch the last 200m or so and finished fifth. Big tick.
Moonee Valley Gold Cup (2500m), October 23 2021, Moonee Valley, Anti-Clockwise Direction, Soft Surface
I thought McNeil didn’t ride the best of races on him. Early on, he was focused on one horse, Floating Artist, rather than focusing on the race. Made the mid race move, injecting speed into the race and just couldn’t quite finish it off.
Final Summary: He’s had the prep/experience in Australia and thrived from last year. The two runs back from a break scream out to me of a horse that has been set for one race, which is this. I’m giving enormous respect to Pondus.
16. Grand Promenade
Odds 💰: $15.00
Breeding: Champs Elysses x Zacchera
Trainer: Ciaron Maher/David Eustace
Jockey: Kerrin McEvoy
Weight: 52kg
Barrier: 21`
Career Stats: 19: 8-4-2
Min/Max Distance Wins: 1700m/2600m
Career Best Win: Bart Cummings, October 2 2021, Flemington, Soft Surface
Dry Track Stats: 15: 6-2-2
Wet Track Stats: 4: 2-2-0
Short Summary: In the right camp, in form, loves a firm Flemington deck…he’s a definite winning chance.
Handicap (2040m), August 21 2021, Moonee Valley, Anti-Clockwise Direction, Good Surface
On raw times, this would win most Cox Plates. It was a brutally, brutally run race. This was his first run in several weeks and condition just gave way late.
(Replay Unavailable)
Naturalism Stakes (2000m), September 18 2021, Caulfield, Anti-Clockwise Direction, Good Surface
A run that was full of merit. Had to do plenty of work from the wide gate and tried hard. Just couldn’t quite finish it off but was brave in running fifth.
Bart Cummings (2520m), October 2 2021, Flemington, Anti-Clockwise Direction, Soft Surface
This got him into the field. Perfect ride near a strong speed from Johnny Allen and once he found clear air, he was the one you wanted to be on and gee he was impressive. Form out of this has been solid.
Final Summary: He’s a beauty. He is the 2021 version of Persan. Has just come through the grades, kept winning and is a live chance in the Melbourne Cup. He’s had a good grounding, he’s well in at the weights, doubt the two miles will be an issue…he’s right in the mix.
17. Miami Bound
Odds 💰: $201.00
Breeding: Reliable Man x Arapaho Miss
Trainer: Danny O’Brien
Jockey: Patrick Moloney
Weight: 52kg
Barrier: 17
Career Stats: 26: 5-0-5
Min/Max Distance Wins: 1400m/2500m
Career Best Win: VRC Oaks, November 7 2019, Flemington, Good Surface
Dry Track Stats: 17: 2-0-4
Wet Track Stats: 9: 3-0-1
Short Summary: She prefers it wet, so that’s a negative here, and not sure she’s going any good.
Naturalism Stakes (2000m), September 18 2021, Caulfield, Anti-Clockwise Direction, Good Surface
Market didn’t want her given the gate and dry track and she ran accordingly, beating one runner home, but her second up record indicated that sort of run was on the cards.
Bart Cummings (2520m), October 2 2021, Flemington, Anti-Clockwise Direction, Soft Surface
Similar to the Naturalism. Got back off the speed, a good speed, so she was entitled to run on, but just whacked away and was pretty plain I thought.
Moonee Valley Gold Cup (2500m), October 23 2021, Moonee Valley, Anti-Clockwise Direction, Soft Surface
Won this race last year and was in the market to do something positive, perhaps repeat the dose from 12 months ago, but she just lacked any real turn of foot. The run was okay, but nothing to jump up and down about.
Final Summary: Good Flemington record but I just don’t think she’s going any good. The run last start was okay, but she found her preferred footing and went backwards from her run in the race last year. I can’t entertain her as a threat.
18. Port Guillaume
Odds 💰: $151.00
Breeding: Le Havre x Keira
Trainer: Team Hayes
Jockey: Harry Coffey
Weight: 52kg
Barrier: 23
Career Stats: 10: 4-0-0
Min/Max Distance Wins: 2000m/2500m
Career Best Win: Prix Hocquart, August 8 2020, Deauville, Soft Surface
Dry Track Stats: 3: 1-0-0
Wet Track Stats: 7: 3-0-0
Short Summary: Total forgive two back, then was okay late in the Caulfield Cup. Top ten prospect.
Naturalism Stakes (2000m), September 18 2021, Caulfield, Anti-Clockwise Direction, Good Surface
Completely unwanted in betting, but dragged back from the gate and worked home quite well late in the piece in a good effort behind Noncomformist, where the form out of it has been outstanding, so a big tick re this being a form reference.
Bart Cummings (2520m), October 2 2021, Flemington, Anti-Clockwise Direction, Soft Surface
This is the forgive run. Yes, beaten out of sight, but was wide no cover throughout in a fast run race and to top it off, he pulled up lame, so I’d just be penning this run and forgive him. Go off previous form.
Caulfield Cup (2400m), October 16 2021, Caulfield, Anti-Clockwise Direction, Soft Surface
He was specked at a big price to win the race. He was never a threat, but did warm up late and though safely held, I thought the run had merit to it in a good effort.
Final Summary: Blinkers first time in the Caulfield Cup off a forgive run in the Bart Cummings when pulling up lame and he ran a positive race, albeit was never threatening Incentivise. I suspect that will be the case again. Top ten chance at best.
19. She’s Ideel
Odds 💰: $101.00
Breeding: Dundeel x Ana’s Mail
Trainer: Bjorn Baker
Jockey: Craig Newitt
Weight: 52kg
Barrier: 20
Career Stats: 25: 6-6-5
Min/Max Distance Wins: 1550m/2400m
Career Best Win: Kingston Town Stakes, September 18 2021, Randwick, Soft Surface
Dry Track Stats: 17: 2-5-3
Wet Track Stats: 8: 4-1-2
Short Summary: She’s racing like 3200m will suit. Just not sure she’s good enough.
Kingston Town Stakes (2000m), September 18 2021, Randwick, Clockwise Direction, Soft Surface
She was bursting to win a Stakes race and she got it here, helped by a good ride and track bias playing into her favour. Had the suck run behind the speed, angled clear and was much too good.
The Metropolitan (2400m), October 2 2021, Randwick, Clockwise Direction, Good Surface
I liked her in this race but I thought she was a bit on the disappointing stage. Seemingly had every chance in the run but just wasn’t good enough behind Montefilia. The effort was sound but the market expectation had her running better.
Caulfield Cup (2400m), October 16 2021, Caulfield, Anti-Clockwise Direction, Soft Surface
I didn’t think her run was too bad. She got a fair way back in the run nearer the inside and was nearer the inside, which was quicksand for the meeting, but she stayed on and I thought was a pass mark.
Final Summary: I thought she had her chance behind Montefilia in the Metropolitan. Blinkers back on in the Caulfield Cup and she was okay without jumping up and down. She can run top but doubt she threatens.
20. Future Score
Odds 💰: $151.00
Breeding: Cape Cross x Theola
Trainer: Matt Cumani
Jockey: Dean Yendall
Weight: 51.5kg
Barrier: 15
Career Stats: 22: 6-2-4
Min/Max Distance Wins: 1600m/2600m
Career Best Win: Cranbourne Cup, October 11 2020, Cranbourne, Good Surface
Dry Track Stats: 16: 4-1-4
Wet Track Stats: 6: 2-1-0
Short Summary: He is part of the dead wood in the race. He’ll battle.
Naturalism Stakes (2000m), September 18 2021, Caulfield, Anti-Clockwise Direction, Good Surface
I thought this was a definite pass mark. He was first up since November last year and looked in need of the run but did make ground and was okay given the race shape.
Herbert Power Stakes (2400m), October 9 2021, Caulfield, Anti-Clockwise Direction, Good Surface
Similar to the Naturalism. Race shape was against him. Turned into a real sit/sprint and second up, that set up just didn’t suit him at all. I’d be somewhat forgiving.
Moonee Valley Gold Cup (2500m), October 23 2021, Moonee Valley, Anti-Clockwise Direction, Soft Surface
Yendall rode him positively from outset, settling near the speed, but when it came down to crunch time, he folded and tired late in a battling performance.
Final Summary: He’s not going well enough to my eye. They tried something different last start and it backfired, failing to finish it off. He’s fourth up so has upside to come, but would need to improve out of sight.
21. Tralee Rose
Odds 💰: $16.00
Breeding: Tavistock x Star Of Tralee
Trainer: Symon Wilde
Jockey: Dean Holland
Weight: 51kg
Barrier: 12
Career Stats: 15: 6-4-2
Min/Max Distance Wins: 1700m/2800m
Career Best Win: Geelong Cup, October 20 2021, Geelong, Good Surface
Dry Track Stats: 9: 4-1-2
Wet Track Stats: 6: 2-3-0
Short Summary: Great to see a country horse in the Cup. She’ll run an honest race. Top ten chance at best IMO.
Naturalism Stakes (2000m), September 18 2021, Caulfield, Anti-Clockwise Direction, Good Surface
Sound run from her. She had the suck run behind the speed and was there to threaten. Just a bit one paced but a pass mark for sure when third to Nonconformist, who ran second in the Caulfield Cup.
Bart Cummings (2520m), October 2 2021, Flemington, Anti-Clockwise Direction, Soft Surface
She was brave from the wide gate. Tried her heart out to wear down but couldn’t bridge the gap on a very much in form Grand Promenade. Very good second.
Geelong Cup (2400m), October 20 2021, Geelong, Anti-Clockwise Direction, Good Surface
A win here and she secures spot. That’s exactly what she did. The knock I have on this race is that she was just edging clear of Dr Drill, who I rate as a solid 2000m Listed horse. Is that Melbourne Cup winning form?
Final Summary: I’m not jumping up and down about her after Geelong like some are. It was just a win I thought, aided by a 12/10 steer. She is racing very dour this prep, and seemingly has lost her change up speed. I can see her running top ten. I can’t see her winning/placing.
22. Floating Artist
Odds 💰: $14.00
Breeding: Nathaniel x Miss Kenton
Trainer: Ciaron Maher/David Eustace
Jockey: Teo Nugent
Weight: 50kg
Barrier: 10
Career Stats: 16: 5-2-1
Min/Max Distance Wins: 1600m/2406m
Career Best Win: Handicap, September 25 2020, Sandown, Good Surface
Dry Track Stats: 12: 5-0-1
Wet Track Stats: 4: 0-2-0
Short Summary: I’m warming to him more and more as one of the key chances.
Handicap (1800m), September 25 2021, Sandown, Anti-Clockwise Direction, Good Surface
There was a bit of quality about this win. Admittedly, it was a sit/sprint, but he put them away comfortably and safely held them on the line to win and win well.
(Replay Unavailable)
Coongy (2000m), October 13 2021, Caulfield, Anti-Clockwise Direction, Good Surface
I like Teo as a rider, but this was the first of two poor steers on the horse. Smashed in betting and was expected to win with the intention of backing up in the Caulfield Cup. But he just went too slow in front and it played into the hands of those out the back.
Moonee Valley Gold Cup (2500m), October 23 2021, Moonee Valley, Anti-Clockwise Direction, Soft Surface
Oh my days…ugly, ugly viewing. He should have won. He chose to stay inside and probe for a run instead of getting on the back of Pondus. Got clear late, charged and just missed.
Final Summary: I am warming to him. He was touted as a key threat to Incentivise for the Caulfield Cup but didn’t get a start. He then went to the Valley and you can see above how ugly the viewing was. He’s got fresh legs, a turn of foot, and with only 50kg on his back, he’s a must for exotics, and I can easily have something on him at a good price.
23. Great House
Odds 💰: $21.00
Breeding: Galileo x Anja
Trainer: Chris Waller
Jockey: Michael Dee
Weight: 50kg
Barrier: 7
Career Stats: 15: 5-2-3
Min/Max Distance Wins: 1500m/2500m
Career Best Win: Hotham Stakes, October 30 2021, Flemington, Good Surface
Dry Track Stats: 7: 2-1-1
Wet Track Stats: 8: 3-1-2
Short Summary: Strong winner of the Hotham and Hotham winners always run well in the Cup so he commands respect.
The Metropolitan (2400m), October 2 2021, Randwick, Clockwise Direction, Good Surface
I thought his run from the back was full of merit behind Montefilia. Bit one paced when they dashed but he stayed on and was sound in defeat.
Caulfield Cup (2400m), October 16 2021, Caulfield, Anti-Clockwise Direction, Soft Surface
He stuck to the task gamely behind Incentivise, but I will say, he had a suck run behind the speed and had every chance, but was still comfortably held by the boom horse.
Hotham Stakes (2500m), October 30 2021, Flemington, Anti-Clockwise Direction, Good Surface
Strong win to earn his spot in the final field. Had some chasing to do and for a few strides, looked like he would have to settle for second, but he really picked up late, surged and nailed Mankayan.
Final Summary: It’s the same year in, year out. The Hotham winner doesn’t exactly have the A1 form, but every year they run well in the Cup and expecting something similar, especially a Chris Waller horse on the back up, which is always a positive.
24. Sir Lucan
Odds 💰: $21.00
Breeding: Camelot x Sparrow
Trainer: Gai Waterhouse/Adrian Bott
Jockey: Glen Boss
Weight: 50kg
Barrier: 18
Career Stats: 8: 2-1-0
Min/Max Distance Wins: 1609/2615m
Career Best Win: Yeats Stakes, May 15 2021, Navan, Good Surface
Dry Track Stats: 4: 1-0-0
Wet Track Stats: 3: 0-1-0
Short Summary: Lightly raced Northern Hemisphere three year old. Good recipe for a Melbourne Cup.
Gordon Stakes (2412m), July 29 2021, Goodwood, Clockwise Direction, Soft Surface
Great run in defeat behind a horse who I think will be a Cup contender in the future, Ottoman Emperor. He chased strongly from off the speed out wide and just missed out on the win in a good effort.
Great Voltigeur Stakes (2384m), August 18 2021, York, Anti-Clockwise Direction, Good Surface
He was good in a quality race with strong depth. Yibir is above average, Kemari was touted as a Melbourne Cup prospect, so the form out of this I think will hold up and Sir Lucan closed his race off nicely to run fourth.
St Leger (2922m), September 11 2021, Doncaster, Anti-Clockwise Direction, Soft Surface
Beaten comprehensively here, but the winner was Hurricane Lane, who is regarded as one of the best in the world, so the form is A1 despite him being beaten around 14 lengths. He was off the bit quickly and didn’t produce any real change up speed.
Final Summary: I was ready to tout him as a genuine Melbourne Cup contender, but the St Leger run has me worried that he might be a tired horse. But, the WaterBott camp will get their hands on him and last time they got a quality stayer from overseas was Fiorente, and we know what he went on to do.
