Godolphin trainer Charlie Appleby is eyeing a return to the Melbourne Cup scene, with Thursday night’s Group 2 Belmont Gold Cup in New York potentially paving the way.
Appleby, who last had a Melbourne Cup runner in 2019, is preparing Siskany to defend his title in the 3200m race at Saratoga.
The Belmont Gold Cup, known for its direct link to the Melbourne Spring Carnival, offers the winner a ballot-free ticket into November’s Melbourne Cup.
Notable Australian travelers like Loft (2022) and Baron Samedi (2021) have emerged victorious from this prestigious event.
Siskany, boasting eight wins from 17 starts, including a victory over eventual Melbourne Cup winner Without A Fight, is among the 14 final acceptances for the $US250,000 race.
Despite being the only non-American contender, Siskany’s form and Appleby’s expertise suggest a strong chance at success.
