2009 Caulfield Cup

The 2009 Caulfield Cup

A highlight of the Caulfield Spring Carnival series of meetings, the race is held during theweekend immediately after the running of the Caulfield Guineas. It is said to be the richest mile and a half handicap in thoroughbred racing, and is an important qualifier and trial for the Melbourne Cup.

It is run over a distance of 2400 metres, at the Caulfield Racecourse in Melbourne. Entry is open to 3 year old and above to both colt & filly thoroughbreds.

First run in 1879, the race was regarded as being inseperable from the Melbourne Cup and a win in both races – the “Cup Double” is considered to be one of the finest achievements in Australian thoroughbred racing. So far, during its history, only 11 racehorses have managed to achieve this feat.

With more international thoroughbreds travelling to Australia to complete the season, more UK bookmakers have been giving the coverage to the Caulfield Cup. Whilst odds are not available too far in advance, the coverage of the race in the week before it is run is widespread.

This years Caulfield Cup promises to be spectacular, here’s a rundown on the runners:

1. VIEWED. Ran super last year in the Caulfield Cup, then went on to win the Melbourne Cup. He’s on track for an excellent finish in the Turnbull behind Efficient. He’s definitely a major player.

2. KIRKLEES. Well credentialed, his last start he won coming off a 42 day break. Well drawn with superior form.

3. C’EST LA GUERRE. A great finishing effort behind stablemate Efficient in the Turnbull. A big threat, he should be spot on following three runs this time in.

4. CIMA DE TRIOMPHE. It’s been stated that this is the best horse that Luca Cumani has bought to Australia so he must be very highly regarded here.

5. FUIMICINO. Needs it heavy to show his true ability.

6. MASTER O’REILLY. Going well without winning in races over unsuitable distances. Genuine 2400m horse and is in this with some hope.

7. ROMAN EMPEROR. Influenced by JB Cummings so that should take him a long way.Won the AJC Derby over this trip and ran nicely in the Turnbull.

8. SARRERA. Needs it heavy to have any chance at all.

9. PREDATORY PRICER. Task has been made more difficult with barrier 16. Provided Steven King can give him a reasonable ride his form suggests he can be right in this. He is still a good chance.

10. RED RULER. The trainer got his wish to draw out as he was of the opinion that he resented racing inside horses in the Turnbull where he had a soft run. Each-way.

11. ZAVITE. Needs to improve and at seven years of age that would appear unlikely.

12. HARRIS TWEED. Ran second in the AJC Derby behind Roman Emperor. Not hopeless here.

13. LIGHT VISION. Drops 6kg on his last start win against the “B” graders but he always puts in and is a first four player.

14. DAFFODIL. AJC Oaks winner who didn’t get many favours late in the Kelt Capital. Nicely drawn and must be well respected here on 51.5kg.

15. READY TO LIFT. Is a nice mare but will have to lift in form to win this.

16. RED LORD. Got all the favours to win here two runs back in lesser grade. Well drawn

17. VIGOR. Barrier 22. He is the weight horse of the race but it will take a magical ride from Corey Brown to secure a nice run from the wide draw. Despite the draw he is still in with a chance.

18. ALLEZ WONDER. Another major player, provided the track is not adversely affected, she’s right in this as an Oaks place getter last spring behind Samantha Miss. Right in form, nicely drawn and has J.B. Cummings in her corner.

19. BAUGHURST. Barrier 21 would appear to take care of his chances.

20. SHOCKING. If he was to sneak into this race he would be a chance as he’s improved every run this time in.

21. NEWPORT. Hmmmmmmm

22. MISS DARCEY. Been known to be better off in much gentler company.