Spring has sprung and the scent of roses fills the air at Flemington Racecourse. That can only mean one thing – the Melbourne Cup is just around the corner! The first Tuesday in November is one of the most anticipated dates on the Australian sporting calendar, as the nation stops to watch the best local and international stayers battle it out over 3200 grueling meters. Who will take home the coveted trophy in 2024?
The Contenders
All eyes will be on the defending champion Vauban, the French import who stormed to victory as a 6-year-old in 2023. He’s looking to become the first horse to go back-to-back since the mighty Makybe Diva’s threepeat from 2003-2005. But there are plenty of challengers ready to spoil the party.
Buckaroo from the UK is a lightly raced 4-year-old on the rise. He caught the eye with a fast-finishing 2nd in the Caulfield Cup and will have Hong Kong superstar Joao Moreira in the saddle. Japan’s best chance appears to be Warp Speed, although he disappointed in the Caulfield Cup and may not relish Flemington’s long straight.
The Kiwis have a strong hand as always, led by last year’s Cox Plate winner Kovalica and the emerging stayer Sharp ‘n’ Smart. But the Caulfield Cup form is often the best guide, which brings in Land Legend, Absurde and Okita Soushi. The latter took out the traditional lead-up, the Moonee Valley Gold Cup, and has the services of star jockey Jamie Kah.
The Roughies
If you’re looking for a bit of value, Onesmoothoperator could be the horse for you. The American import scored an impressive win in the Geelong Cup and will have Craig Williams on board, a man who knows how to win Melbourne Cups having saluted with Dunaden in 2011.
Interpretation from Ireland ran a slashing 2nd in the Geelong Cup and is a stayer on the up. While Sea King is in red-hot form for Godolphin, winning the Bendigo Cup last start. He’s one of two chances for trainer James Cummings along with the classy mare Zardozi.
Tips and Predictions
So who will be crowned the winner of the 2024 Melbourne Cup? It’s shaping up as one of the most open and competitive editions in years. But if pushed, here are our top 4 selections:
- Onesmoothoperator
- Vauban
- Buckaroo
- Okita Soushi
Onesmoothoperator ticks a lot of boxes and should get a lovely run from barrier 13. Vauban is the proven performer and will be very hard to beat again. While Buckaroo and Okita Soushi have both shown they have the staying prowess to be in the finish.
Whoever you like, make sure you shop around for the best odds. The bookies often have very different markets leading up to the big race. So an each-way bet on Buckaroo might be $6.50 with one bookie but as much as $8 with another. It pays to have multiple accounts to ensure you’re getting top odds.
Melbourne Cup Day
The Melbourne Cup isn’t just about the one race either – there’s a bumper 10-event card to enjoy on the day with over $20 million in prize money on offer. So make sure you check out our full Flemington preview and tips to find plenty of winners across the card.
Whether you’re lucky enough to be trackside soaking up the carnival atmosphere, or watching and betting into the action from home, the Melbourne Cup is a special event that captures the imagination of the nation. The “race that stops a country” is almost upon us again. Strap yourself in and enjoy the ride!
