The hard work is done for Without A Fight ahead of the Melbourne Cup at Flemington for UK co-trainer Ed Crisford says it is an honour to be in Melbourne preparing Without A Fight for a tilt at the 2022 Melbourne Cup.
Crisford, who prepares the stayer with his father Simon, has been overseeing the preparation of the stayer for Tuesday’s Flemington showpiece over 3200m.
All has gone smoothly for Without A Fight according to Crisford who had his final ‘breeze up’ on Saturday and will have a light canter on Monday to wind-up the preparation.
Crisford admits the nerves are starting to build in anticipation of what may lay ahead, although he is not getting too far ahead of himself.
“The Melbourne Cup is one of the great races in the calendar year,” Crisford said.
“To just be able to bring a horse down here and being able to compete is a feat in itself.
“He’s got to do deal with a lot of other good horses in the race. You’re always nervous about a race like this. It’s one of the best races in the world, but it’s out of our hands now.
“He’s got one more, little easy canter tomorrow and then heads into the race on Tuesday and if we can run well, it would be a dream come true.”
Without A Fight, who will be ridden by 2022 British Champion Jockey William Buick, may not have fared well in the barrier draw, coming up with gate 18, but Crisford is not too concerned.
He pointed out that three of the past four winners had drawn 18, or wider.
“You can do from there,” Crisford said.
“If you have the horse underneath you and get a good trip, anything can happen.
“He’s been training great into the race. He has not missed a beat. He looks great, his weight is great. He’s been eating, he’s been drinking. He’s as healthy as can be.
“I think he can run a big race.”
