The 163rd edition of the Melbourne Cup has received 132 nominations, with trainers and connections from all over the world keeping alive their dream of winning Australia’s most famous race.
The nominations feature horses from Japan, Ireland, England and New Zealand, with Irish trainer Aidan O’Brien (5) and his Joseph (3) dominating the international contingent.
View full 2023 Melbourne Cup nominations here
Headlining the eight runners from both O’Brien stablesis the current equal-third favourite with online bookmakers, Tower Of London, who won the Listed King George V at Leopardstown in June.
Also hailing from Ireland, Willie Mullins has nominated two of his runners, with the equal race favourite Vauban joined by Absurde.
William Haggas has just the one runner for the race that stops the nation, nominating the undefeated Desert Hero, who is owned by King Charles.
Leading Australian trainers Ciaron Maher and David Eustace hold the most nominations of any Australian-based stables, with 17 runners.
The obvious headline act for Maher and Eustace is the defending champion, Gold Trip; however, many will have their eyes on up-and-coming stayers Right You Are and High Emocean, with the latter finishing third in the Cup last year.
Chris Waller has nominated 14 runners, including equal race favourite Soulcombe and equal second favourite Francesco Guardi.
After having their perceived number one seed White Marlin ruled out of the spring with an injury, Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott have nominated nine runners.
Listed Roy Higgins winner Goldman will headline their crop, while ATC Derby winner Major Beel and 2022 Sydney Cup winner Knights Order are expected to join him.
After receiving 186 nominations for last year’s Melbourne Cup, the tally of 132 entrants for this year’s edition seems a little light.
However, with quality stayers expected to make the trip over from Europe to challenge the improving bunch of staying gallopers in Australia, we should expect another unforgettable 3200m contest on Tuesday, November 7, at Flemington Racecourse.
Melbourne Cup 2023 odds
As of Tuesday, September 5
- Soulcombe – +700
- Vauban – +700
- Francesco Guardi – +1000
- Goldman – +1000
- Lunar Flare – +1400
- Saint George – +1400
- Tower Of London – +1400
- Without A Fight – +1400
- Absurde – +1700
- Breakup – +1700
Complete Melbourne Cup odds available at Ladbrokes
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