The Lexus Melbourne Cup – The Race That Stops a Nation – Make That Two , today (Tuesday) marks the 164th running of the iconic southern hemisphere horse race at Flemington Racecourse.

This year, the stakes for The Great Race have risen to $10 million.
After a stunning weekend, the weather could make picking a winner tricky. There’s a good chance of rain this afternoon, with a high of just 16°C expected. Rain was also forecast for last night (Monday), adding to the unpredictability. Around 20mm of rain has already fallen in the past 24 hours, so a wet track could be a factor — although they say Flemington drains quickly.

As always, there is strong overseas interest in the Cup.

Australian TAB favourites:

  1. AL RIFFA
    • TAB Odds: $8.50 (Aust)
    • Form: 10x3x42211
    • Career: 17 starts – 5 wins, 6 seconds, 1 third
    • This Irish raider is in strong form but is untested in Australian conditions.
    • On the NZ TAB last night, AL RIFFA was paying $7.00. All eyes will be on champion jockey Mark Zahra, especially if the track is wet.

Other notable chances:

  • Half Yours – $7.50 at time of writing
  • Presage Nocturne – $8.50
    • TAB commentary suggests the 3200m distance should suit.

From the northern hemisphere, MeyDaan is another to watch, paying $26 to win with champion ex-Kiwi jockey James McDonald (J-Mac) aboard. McDonald had a stellar weekend, and TAB says this horse can win.

Kiwi trainer Chris Waller has five starters:

  • Valiant King – $8.50
  • Buckeroo – $9.50
  • Three others at longer odds
    Waller continues to show he has the Midas touch.

In the end, it may all come down to the weather.
Who has an office sweepstake or are you getting dressed up for the occasion?

The Melbourne Cup jumps at 5pm NZ time this afternoon.

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