Australia’s leading trainer Chris Waller is hoping for third time lucky with Finche (GB) when the imported stayer contests the $8 million Group 1 Melbourne Cup (3200m) at Flemington on Tuesday.
Finche , currently a $17 chance in TAB markets, will join stablemate Verry Elleegant , an $11 hope, in Tuesday's race, bidding to give Waller his first success in Australia's great race.
A former member of the Andre Fabre yard, Finche had his first Melbourne Cup start in 2018 finishing fourth behind Cross Counter in 2018 before returning last year to run seventh to Vow And Declare.
"I think he's going as well, if not better than ever," Waller said.
Finche prior to, running in the Stella Artois Caulfield Cup Photo by Racing and Sports
"I think he'll settle up near the pace. Last year it was a sit and sprint which didn't really suit him.
"We believe he's a definite chance."
Finche is coming off a last start fifth behind stablemate Verry Elleegant in the Group 1 Caulfield Cup (2400m) on October 17 that gave Waller his first win in that race.
That race was run on a soft track and while Verry Elleegant's best form would appear to be on that type of surface, Waller in unconcerned.
Tuesday's forecast is for a 29-degree day with the track expected to firm during the day.
"She's been given the tag of being a wet tracker, simply because she copes with all conditions," Waller said.
"I think it's just worked out that a lot of her big race wins have been on wet tracks.
"If it was a two-mile race on a tough demanding wet track, I would be more concerned about her stamina.
"Every horse will get their chance and I think she'll appreciate the good track.
"She is a great chance. She has come through the Caufield Cup very well and everyone saw how tough she actually is.
"But that extra 800 metres is the unknown, but what a tough horse we have got.
"The staying ability is there, she's got the speed. It's just a matter of luck in running."
Waller said it is nerve wracking awaiting the Melbourne Cup, but also is acutely aware of its importance.
"It's not only a race that stops the nation, but it goes all the way around the world now," he said.
With COVID-19 pandemic the shutting of borders between Victoria and NSW denying Waller the opportunity of travelling down to his Flemington stable, he has been relying on Jo Taylor along with advances in technical aids to keep him abreast of his horses.
"There's different software we use to monitor horse's temperatures, feed, wellbeing, how their heart rates are," Waller said.
"You name it. There's a tool for everything nowadays.
"We've been lucky to get on board early and in the last six months we've really needed it.
"We've got a good team in Melbourne, headed by Jo Taylor.
"They just do everything that we ask and I'm pretty proud of what's been achieved so far."
