In addition to Absurde, Golden Ticket winner Future History (Lexus Bart Cummings) is set to claim his spot in the Lexus Melbourne Cup and will be ridden by English jockey Hollie Doyle, who will become the first international female jockey to ride in the race. One further Golden Ticket is up for grabs in the Lexus Archer Stakes on Saturday, Penfolds Victoria Derby Day.
Others remaining in the hunt include Irish Group 1 winners Alenquer, who is set to be the final Lexus Melbourne Cup ride for three-time winner Damien Oliver, and Soulcombe, while recent French arrival Lastotchka is expected to have her maiden Australian start at Flemington next week.
Victoria Racing Club (VRC) Executive General Manager Racing Leigh Jordon said that the 2023 Lexus Melbourne Cup was shaping up as one of the most intriguing in years.
“There is quality up and down the list of third acceptances for the Lexus Melbourne Cup,” Mr Jordon said.
“At the top are horses like Gold Trip and Without A Fight who have been headline horses already this spring and there are strong internationals like Vauban and Absurde who we are yet to see race in Australia.
“The next few days will build momentum as the field is finalised and we are excited to see who will make it to the start for the 163rd Lexus Melbourne Cup next Tuesday.
”Final declarations for the Lexus Melbourne Cup close at 4:30pm on Saturday 4 November, with the barrier draw for the world’s richest handicap to be conducted shortly afterwards in Flemington’s famous Mounting Yard.
The full list of third acceptances for the Lexus Melbourne Cup can be found here.
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