Impressive Victory for Vauban at Naas, Boosting Melbourne Cup Hopes
Vauban Stakes Melbourne Cup Claim with Ballyroan Victory
In a thrilling display of skill and determination, Vauban secured his spot in the prestigious Melbourne Cup by triumphing in the Ballyroan Stakes at Naas. This five-year-old gelding trained by Willie Mullins has already made a name for himself on the Flat after winning the Copper Horse Handicap at Royal Ascot.
Having dominated over obstacles as a three-time Grade One winner, Vauban needed to finish within the top three in this mile-and-a-half Group Three race to secure his place in the Flemington showpiece on November 7th.
Ridden forward by jockey Colin Keane, Vauban positioned himself behind Gooloogong and Pivotal Trigger before making his move. As they entered the home straight, he accelerated magnificently, leaving other competitors trailing behind. The only horse that came close was Valiant King from Joseph O’Brien’s stable.
Mullins’ assistant trainer David Casey expressed their delight after witnessing Vauban’s impressive performance: “We’re delighted with him and Colin was happy. He said they went a good gallop, a nice even pace which suited him.”
The victory not only solidified Vauban’s qualification for the Melbourne Cup but also provided confidence that there is still room for improvement. Following a brief break after Ascot, he demonstrated his readiness to compete once again.
Casey revealed that the decision to enter Vauban in upcoming races such as York’s Lonsdale Cup, the Comer Group International Irish St Leger Trial Stakes, and the Irish St Leger itself at the Curragh will be left to Mullins. However, given their entry into these events, it is clear that they have multiple options.
Looking ahead to next season, Casey mentioned a potential return to hurdles for Vauban: “I’d say yeah, why not? I’d imagine so if he goes through with his Melbourne campaign.”
Coral has already deemed Vauban as their favorite for the Melbourne Cup with odds of 5-1. Meanwhile, Paddy Power offers slightly higher odds of 6-1 for this talented gelding from Closutton.