Willie Mullins-trained Duo Primed for Success in Melbourne Cup

The highly anticipated Lexus Melbourne Cup draw has been released, and it seems that the Willie Mullins-trained duo, Vauban and Absurde, have landed favorable positions with stalls three and eight respectively. Both horses have shown great promise leading up to the race, making them strong contenders at Flemington on Tuesday.

Vauban, a five-year-old trained by Mullins, is currently a firm favorite to win the renowned “race that stops a nation.” Having transitioned from impressive hurdling exploits to showcasing commendable form on the Flat this season, Vauban has demonstrated his versatility as a racehorse. His recent victories include an astounding seven-and-a-half-length triumph in the Copper Horse Handicap at Royal Ascot followed by an equally impressive win in the Group Three Ballyroan Stakes at Naas.

Absurde, another talented horse hailing from the Willie Mullins stable, finished as runner-up to Vauban at Ascot but bounced back triumphantly with a remarkable victory in the Ebor at York. This outstanding performance solidified Absurde’s credentials as a serious contender for success in the upcoming Melbourne Cup.

Notably, Mullins came close to securing victory in Australia’s biggest race back in 2015 when Max Dynamite finished as runner-up. With Vauban and Absurde under his tutelage this time around, he firmly believes he possesses two formidable contenders capable of going one better.

Ryan Moore is set to partner with Vauban for this prestigious event. When asked about Vauban’s prospects, Mullins confidently stated, “I think he’s as good as Max Dynamite, and maybe even better. We’ll find out on Tuesday. This is undoubtedly our strongest chance ever at the Melbourne Cup.”

Mullins also made sure not to overlook Absurde’s potential, reminiscing about the horse’s exceptional performance in the Ebor with renowned jockey Frankie Dettori. Excited about Absurde’s inclusion in the race, Mullins remarked, “Absurde did exceptionally well with Frankie in the saddle for the Ebor. Frankie gave him a terrific ride there. He has settled into quarantine smoothly and appears to be in fantastic shape.”

For Absurde, Zac Purton has been appointed as his jockey for this prestigious event. Reflecting on their previous encounter at Royal Ascot where Vauban took first place by a significant margin of 20 lengths, Mullins believes that Absurde will showcase significant improvements this time around due to enhanced settling abilities and a favorable draw.

Joseph O’Brien has previously tasted success at Flemington with Rekindling and Twilight Payment leading from his stable yard. However this year, he relies solely upon Okita Soushi who claimed victory earlier in the Duke Of Edinburgh Stakes at Royal Ascot. Despite struggling during his last outing in Caulfield Cup and drawing an unfavorable stall position of 20 wide gates here; Okita Soushi remains an outsider according to bookmakers.

As we approach race day excitement continues to build among fans worldwide anticipating another thrilling edition of Australia’s most iconic race – The Lexus Melbourne Cup!