The expected downpour in the lead-up to Tuesday’s Melbourne Cup not only has many locals a bit concerned about their chances, but also a few Europeans, including the camp of Meydaan.
Co-trainer Ed Crisford said he and father Simon were pleased to have Meydaan going to Flemington after not handling the track in the Caulfield Cup, but he said the forecast for the next few days in Melbourne has shaken a little of that confidence.
“I think it depends on how much rain we have,” Crisford told Racing.com. “I am sure he can go on good to soft, but if it goes heavy and it’s real testing, he’s into the unknown and I don’t know to be honest until we see him run on it. But I think soft will be fine.
“I know 22 is a tough draw but, I guess, on a wet track, you are probably better on the outside than on the inside. We’re due to have 30mm on Monday and more on Tuesday, but the draw is the draw. It’s the luck of the draw, so it’s up to J Mac (James McDonald) now.”
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Crisford said the form the horse had been indicating his chances in Melbourne are solid.
“He’s had good form in England – a little bit inconsistent,” he said.
“His last run against Giavellotto, who ran well (fourth) in the Arc (Prix de l’Arc de Triopmhe) and Kalpana (seventh in the Arc), was very good and if he brings that form, he should be right in the mix.
“I think the Caulfield Cup just didn’t work out. On the drying surface he really didn’t let down, and Andrea (Atzeni) said he just lost three or four lengths, but once he straightened, he finished super.
“I was really pleased with the way he finished, and it just showed that two miles at Flemington should be completely within his reach, so I think if everything pans out and he has a good trip, he’ll be right in it.” – with Edward Sadler
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