The Australian Cup may have lost its lustre somewhat in recent years, it is tough to respect a Group 1 race that has been won by Harlem, but it is back in a big way in 2019.
James Cummings elected not to dog punters this year, like he did when he didn’t run Avilius in The Metropolitan last Spring, and his star galloper will go into the race as a dominant favourite.
Will he finally claim a maiden Group 1 win? I’m not going to lie to you – he looks a moral.
Australian Cup - Winner
8. Avilius
I normally go out of my way to avoid backing favourites in Group 1 races, but Avilius simply ticks every single box for this race. His form this campaign has been nothing short of outstanding and, unless Cummings has made a meal of him, he should be ready to peak third-up. The only concern is Hugh Bowman. Bowman is simply terrified of getting suspended when Winx is in action and to be frank he rides like a cat, but hopefully Avilius will be able to do the work for him.
Australian Cup - 2nd
8. The Taj Mahal
I’ve always had a soft spot for this horse and I’m not really sure why as he has been disgusting to me on the punt. He was awful in the Peter Young Stakes and the thought of a smug Nick Williams accepting the trophy makes me feel physically ill, but I’ve got a feeling that this bloke will produce a better effort than his current odds suggest.
Australian Cup - 3rd
3. Ace High
Ace High won the Victoria Derby In 2017 and it still makes me sick that he didn’t beat Levendi in the Australian Derby last year. He isn’t a horse that gets a lot of wraps, but David Payne is an underrated trainer and his effort in the Peter Young Stakes was solid. I don’t think he will beat Avilius, but he will be thereabouts.
Australian Cup - 4th
1. Almandin
Almandin had no luck in this race 12 months ago and there is no reason why he can’t be in the mix once again. He will probably benefit from this run and the Tancred Stakes is probably his major target, but you never know with those crafty folk at Macedon Lodge and they might have him nice and forward for his return to the races.