Trainer John Sargent expects Gust Of Wind to be a serious contender in Tuesday’s $6.2million Melbourne Cup at Flemington.
Sargent set his sights on the Race that stops a Nation after Gust Of Wind won the ATC Australian Oaks earlier this year, and he is happy with the horse’s form going into the race.
Gust Of Wind was fourth in the Caulfield Cup at her most recent start and has 51kg with Hong Kong-based Chad Schofield to take the ride.
Sargent believes Gust Of Wind’s Cup preparation has gone perfectly with the mare finishing fourth in the Caulfield Cup at her most recent start.
“We had the two runs we wanted around Flemington (Makybe Diva and Turnbull Stakes),” he said.
“She was unlucky both times but hit the line strongly, and we worked out that probably the best form guide going into this race is the Caulfield Cup.
“I knew the track wouldn’t suit her, but she ran very well finishing fourth and I think there’s improvement going back to Flemington.”
And while Gust Of Wind has a wide barrier, Sargent hopes Schofield can find cover off the pace and start building momentum into the race, to be there challenging at the business end.
“It’s a dream to be here, half the field is European horses and we’re lucky to get one in there, so it’s a great thrill,” he added.
“I think she’s right there in it.”
Melbourne Cup Day – Race Schedule (all times AEST)
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Race 1 – 10:40am Gr.3 Emirates Airline Plate
Race 2 – 11:20am tab.com.au Trophy
Race 3 – 12:00pm J.B. Cummings AM Tribute Plate
Race 4 – 12:40pm Lavazza Short Black
Race 5 – 1:20pm Schweppes #FlemingtonFling
Race 6 – 2:00pm Lexus Hybrid Plate
Race 7 – 3:00pm Gr.1 Emirates Melbourne Cup
Race 8 – 3:55pm LR James Boag’s Symphony Stakes
Race 9 – 4:35pm LR MSS Security Sprint
Race 10 – 5:15pm Gr.3 Hong Kong Jockey Club Stakes
