There is more to the Melbourne Cup than putting on a fascinator and sipping Champagne. Bloodstock NZ expert Regan Donnison is someone who has spent much of his life in the horse racing industry, successfully training winning horses in New Zealand and Australia. Ahead of today’s big race, which kicks off at 5pm (NZT), he shares his insight on the horse names to know.
It is hard to go past the favourite Fame Game. His run in the Caulfield Cup had Melbourne Cup written all over it, running on late from the back of the field, indicating he will appreciate the step up in distance. His Japanese form is very good and racing in Japan is some of the best in the world.
I think the Kiwi horse Who Shot The Barman also ran an encouraging race in the Caulfield Cup. He ran third in last year's Melbourne Cup so is proven at the distance and the track. The patriot in me hopes he will win.
The Kiwis have another very good chance with Preferment. He is a son of the great Zabeel and has won two Group 1 races, both at Flemington. He should handle the distance and is in good form. His trainer Chris Waller, a Kiwi himself, is a genius and will have the horse spot on to win it for NZ.
European stayers are always hard to beat and the best of them this year could be Trip to Paris. He ran second in the Caulfield Cup, finishing really strongly. He is a Group 1 winner over 4000m so the distance will not be a problem. Expect him to be right there at the finish.
