The Melbourne Cup’s global intrigue received a jolt of excitement with The Grey Wizard’s triumph in the Group 2 Belmont Gold Cup, securing a coveted ballot exemption.
Guided by Hall of Fame jockey John Velazquez, The Grey Wizard delivered a stellar finish, outpacing competitors like Champagne Juan and thwarting Godolphin’s Siskany, last year’s champion.
This victory marks The Grey Wizard’s entry into the illustrious Melbourne Cup, joining an elite few with ballot exemptions.
Trainer Graham Motion, intrigued by international opportunities, keeps the Melbourne venture on the table, hinting at discussions with the owners.
As anticipation builds for the 2024 Melbourne Cup, upcoming races offer additional pathways to the illustrious event.
Upcoming ballot-free races for the Melbourne Cup include:
- G2 Archer Stakes (2500m) at Flemington in September
- G3 Bart Cummings (2500m) at Flemington in October
Three greys go to the line locked together in the G2 Belmont Gold Cup… 🩶
…and it is THE GREY WIZARD who earns a ticket into the Melbourne Cup! 🏆
See you on the first Tuesday in November down under, @GrahamMotion @EclipseTBP? 🇦🇺pic.twitter.com/vuuvPTxcCY
— World Horse Racing (@WHR) June 6, 2024
