Champion trainer Chris Waller is gearing up for the prestigious Caulfield and Melbourne Cups with a formidable lineup of four top horses. Among the likely contenders are Soulcombe, Waterville (now known as Mr Waterville in Australia), Francesco Guardi, and Manzoice.
Francesco Guardi appears to be in prime form following a well-deserved rest after securing victory in the G2 Moonee Valley Cup last spring. Meanwhile, Soulcombe has shown a preference for big tracks, speed, and longer distances, as demonstrated by an impressive win in the G3 Queen Elizabeth Stakes and continued strong performances.
Waterville turned heads with a remarkable come-from-behind win in the Irish Cesarewitch, catching the attention of racing enthusiasts. Waller intends to direct Waterville towards either The Metropolitan or The Bart Cummings races, focusing on distances of 2400 meters or more.
As for Manzoice, the Victoria Derby champion, expectations are high for a triumphant return to form in the upcoming spring campaign.
Ladbrokes early Melbourne Cup 2023 market has priced the contenders, with Francesco Guardi at $15, Soulcombe at $19, Waterville at $26 and Manzoice at $101.
