Melbourne Cup 2023: Racing Victoria Vets Evaluate Four Horses for Final Lineup
As the Melbourne Cup 2023 approaches, Racing Victoria veterinarians are closely evaluating several key horses for the final lineup. Preliminary examinations have indicated possible concerns with four prominent contenders. Additional assessments will be conducted shortly before the lineup is finalized.
Key Updates on Horses
- Flatten The Curve (Odds: $26) – Noted for a change in gait.
- Absurde (Odds: $18) – Exhibiting similar gait changes.
- Goodie Two Shoes (Odds: $34) – Also showing gait concerns.
- Interpretation – Experiencing soreness in his right front foot after the Bendigo Cup.
These horses are scheduled for re-evaluation, with Interpretation being examined today and the others checked the following Saturday morning. Despite recent issues, Interpretation holds the 32nd position in the order of entry.
Insights on Flatten The Curve
Flatten The Curve, trained by Henk Grewe, boasts an impressive track record, with no losses on turf. The horse is ridden by Thore Hammer-Hansen, a talented 25-year-old Danish jockey. Hammer-Hansen has recently secured the last two jockey championships in Germany. Leigh Jordan, the general manager of the Victorian Racing Club, remarked on the potential of Flatten The Curve, suggesting he could be an underdog in the race.
Examination Results
On Thursday, 34 horses underwent examination, with 29 cleared to participate in the Melbourne Cup. Racing Victoria confirmed that these horses meet all necessary conditions for entry.
List of Approved Horses
- Half Yours
- Onesmoothoperator
- Parchment Party
- Torranzino
- Valiant King
- Al Riffa
- Buckaroo
- Arapaho
- Vauban
- Chevalier Rose
- Presage
- Nocturne
- Furthur
- Middle Earth
- Meydaan
- Land Legend
- Smokin’ Romans
- River Of Stars
- More Felons
- Changingoftheguard
- Athabascan
- Royal Supremacy
- Sayedaty
- Sadaty
- Birdman
- Post Impressionist
- Scary Trav
- Etna Rosso
- Whisky On The Hill
- Golden Snap
Updated Order of Entry
| Position | Horse Name | Trainer | Weight (kg) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Half Yours | Tony & Calvin McEvoy | 53 |
| 1 | Onesmoothoperator | Brian Ellison | 53 |
| 1 | Parchment Party | William Mott | 52 |
As the race date draws nearer, the next few days will be pivotal for determining the final contenders. Given recent health evaluations and potential withdrawals, the outcome of the Melbourne Cup is becoming increasingly uncertain.