Kiwi Mahrajaan on track for Melbourne Cup despite setback
Mahrajaan, a proven stayer, remains focused on his Group 1 Melbourne Cup (3200m) bid despite weather affecting his lead-up plans.
“He’s guaranteed a run in the Cup now, he’s 23rd in order and as we know they run 24 so he’s in the race, but we didn’t want to run him if he’s not going to perform to his best,” co-trainer Shaun Ritchie explained.
The chestnut was slated for the Group 3 Bart Cummings (2520m) but opted out due to the wet conditions at Flemington last Saturday.
“He’s been woeful in the wet in the past and it was an unnecessary risk to run him,” Ritchie added.
Next up is the Group 2 Herbert Power (2400m) at Caulfield, where Mahrajaan will carry 58kg.
“If he can perform well, then having a first Melbourne Cup runner would be fantastic and a great experience for myself and the owners,” the trainer said.
Damian Lane will partner Mahrajaan, who thrives over longer distances as evidenced by victories in the Group 2 Auckland Cup (3200m) and Group 3 New Zealand Cup (3200m).
“He needs all of two miles to show his best as he’s proved in the past,” Ritchie emphasised.
“I think it’s taken Mahrajaan 18 months to get used to the Australasian style of training and adapt to the environment.”
Mahrajaan is currently rated at $101 for the Melbourne Cup with BetOnline.