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.
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.
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. Drawn in barrier three, his odds have since drifted but he remains the horse to beat, according to bookmakers. Co-trainer Ciaron Maher is upbeat on what is forecast to be a hot day, but with the chance of thunderstorms which could soften the track.
Vauban stablemate Absurbe, with leading Hong Kong rider Zac Purton on aboard, is also tipped to challenge, as is the Joao Moreira-ridden Soulmate.
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