Three-year-olds ready to fire in Cox Plate

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - OCTOBER 09: Damien Oliver riding Anamoe defeats Luke Currie riding Captivant in Race 8, the Neds Caulfield Guineas, winning during Melbourne Racing at Caulfield Racecourse on October 09, 2021 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Vince Caligiuri/Getty Images)

Caulfield Guineas quinella Anamoe and Captivant are ready to step up to WFA level with both James Cummings and Peter Snowden upbeat on their chances in the 2040 metre feature. 

If Anamoe or Captivant were to salute on Saturday they would become the first three-year-old to win the Cox Plate since Shamus Award in 2013. Castelvecchio has come the closest since, when running 2nd to Lys Gracieux in 2019. 

Two-time Group 1 winner Anamoe is more favoured in the market after his impressive come from behind win in the Caulfield Guineas. Trainer James Cummings is as confident as ever but the query will be what Craig Williams does from gate 10.

“One of the things I like about Anamoe is that it’s possible we haven’t quite yet seen the best run of the horse this preparation,” Cummings said. 

“When jockey’s have been as cool as the other side of the pillow, Anamoe has had the chance to do his best and I think that’s the way it needs to unfold when you imagine Anamoe possibly winning this race,” he said. 

In contrast, Captivant will be near the speed after drawing the inside gate. 

“I think he will be (close to the speed). With 49kgs on the back it’s better to be up there. I’m quietly confident he will run the trip out well,” said Snowden. 

Meanwhile earlier today all 10 horses in the Cox Plate were inspected by Racing Victoria vets with Gold Trip displaying lameness in his off fore and off hind leg. Whilst New Zealand raider Callsign Mav was displaying lameness in his left leg. 

Both starters will be re-examined tomorrow. 

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