2023 Cox Plate Showdown: International Intrigue and Local Legends Clash at Moonee Valley
The Cox Plate, a crown jewel in Australia’s horse racing calendar, is gearing up to showcase another thrilling contest this Saturday. This race is celebrated for its blend of strategy and speed, making it a captivating spectacle for both seasoned punters and racing enthusiasts.
Lead-In to the Plate:
The anticipation for the Cox Plate at Moonee Valley is palpable, especially with the intriguing lineup of contenders this year. Among the notable entrants is Victoria Road, a UK-prepared galloper trained by the esteemed Aidan O’Brien. Set to make his Australian debut in the Cox Plate, Victoria Road’s performance in the Group 2 Prix Guillaume d’Ornano raised eyebrows, but O’Brien is quick to defend, attributing the outcome to race dynamics. Interestingly, while Victoria Road hails from a lineage of sprinters, his standout performances have emerged as he tackled longer distances. After the Cox Plate, he’s slated to join the stables of Ciaron Maher and David Eustace for his Australian campaigns.
On the other hand, Mr Brightside, representing the Lindsay Park team, is another name generating buzz. With a commendable track record at The Valley, the gelding, under the guidance of Ben Hayes and team, is poised to make a mark. Despite a recent second-place finish in the Group 1 King Charles III Stakes, Hayes exudes confidence in the horse’s form. While there are whispers about Mr Brightside’s capability to master the 2040m distance, his favourable barrier draw offers an advantage. As the race day approaches, these two horses, with their distinct narratives, are set to be at the heart of many discussions.
The Contenders:
While Romantic Warrior is undoubtedly in the spotlight, several other horses have garnered significant attention:
Romantic Warrior (7):
Profile: A top-tier horse with a reputation for resilience and determination, trained by the esteemed Danny Shum.
Performance: Despite a hiccup at the Turnbul, Romantic Warrior remains a force to be reckoned with. His past achievements and the faith of yard experts make him a favorite. The saying goes, “forgive a good horse for one bad run,” and many believe he’s still the one to beat.
Mr Brightside (2):
Profile: Representing the renowned Lindsay Park team, trained by the trio Ben, JD, and Will Hayes.
Performance: With an impressive record at The Valley and a soft gate position, Mr Brightside is poised to shine. His recent performance in the King Charles suggests he’s ready for the challenge ahead.
Alligator Blood (5):
Profile: A horse known for its tenacity and spirit, trained by the dynamic duo Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott.
Performance: Alligator Blood’s Might And Power win has placed him in the limelight. However, there are lingering doubts about his consistency at 2000m, especially given the competition.
Gold Trip (8):
Profile: A seasoned stallion hailing from France, under the guidance of trainers Ciaron Maher & David Eustace.
Performance: Gold Trip’s resilience and ability to handle pressure make him a top contender. His recent runs at MV, combined with Mark Zahra’s expertise, position him as a strong challenger.
Victoria Road (6):
Profile: A unique blend of speed and endurance, trained by the legendary Aidan O’Brien.
Performance: With elite form lines and a pedigree that suggests versatility, Victoria Road is a horse that cannot be overlooked. His performance against Ace Impact and his success in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf are testament to his potential.
Other Notable Mentions:
Zaaki (12): With Damian Lane’s expertise and a history of commendable performances, Zaaki is one to watch.
Duais (1): A horse that has shown significant improvement and, with the right breaks, could pose a threat to the favorites.
The 2023 Cox Plate is shaping up to be a race of epic proportions, with a mix of established champions and emerging stars. As they line up at the starting gates, the question on everyone’s mind is: Who will clinch the title in this ultimate test of precision, power, and prestige? Whatever the outcome, it promises to be a race for the ages. For the most competitive odds and insights, turn to the VBA bookies. And, as always, remember to gamble responsibly.
