Vauban Tipped For Melbourne Cup Glory As Gold Trip Targets Another Win

Irish-trained Vauban heads into Tuesday's Melbourne Cup as favourite in Australia's "race that stops a nation", but faces a looming threat from in-form Gold Trip who is targeting back-to-back wins

Melbourne, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 6th Nov, 2023) Irish-trained Vauban heads into Tuesday's Melbourne Cup as favourite in Australia's "race that stops a nation", but faces a looming threat from in-form Gold Trip who is targeting back-to-back wins.

Held on the first Tuesday of November since 1876, the punishing 3,200 metre (two-mile) handicap at Flemington is regarded as the ultimate test of stamina and staying power.

With Aus$8 million (US$6 million) at stake, the winner of the 24-strong field will bank Aus$4.4 million and instantly become a household name in Australia where the race is a cultural institution.

Carrying 55kg, Vauban has won his last two races, including a demolition of Melbourne Cup rivals Absurde and More Felons at Royal Ascot this year.

That shot the six-year-old gelding to the top of the markets, with its status reinforced by a comfortable win at Naas in Ireland.

As adept over the hurdles as on the flat, Vauban's odds shortened further after an impressive gallop in training at Flemington last week.

Drawn in barrier three, his odds have since drifted but he remains the horse to beat, according to bookmakers.

Master trainer Willie Mullins has come close to glory before, finishing second with Max Dynamite behind Prince of Penzance in 2015 and third to Rekindling two years later.

He believes Vauban, who was foaled in France, could be his best opportunity to finally take the win.

"I think he's as good as Max Dynamite, maybe better, but we'll find that out on Tuesday," he said.

"He's our strongest chance and may be my strongest chance ever."

English jockey Ryan Moore, who won in 2014 aboard Protectionist, has been entrusted with the reins.

British stallion Gold Trip is currently joint second favourite and will start as the top weight at 58.5kg, a kilogram heavier than 2022 when he streaked home first ahead of Emissary.