'The Race That Stops a Nation.' This is a 3,200-meter handicap, meaning weights are assigned based on a horse's past performance to equalize chances. This makes it notoriously difficult to handicap. In recent years, European 'Raiders' (horses shipped from UK/Ireland/France) have dominated the local Australian stayers. Look for horses with strong form in the Ebor Handicap (York) or the Caulfield Cup. The barrier draw (post position) is crucial; historically, horses drawn very wide (barriers 18-24) struggle to get a position before the first turn. The track at Flemington is vast with a long straight, ensuring that 'hard luck stories' are fewer than on tighter tracks, but stamina is the absolute premium requirement.
Horse racing turns on distance, going, draw and weight carried, and each of those can matter more than reputation. Pace in the race itself decides whether front runners survive or closers get the finish they need. Trainer form, time since the last run and step up or down in class all shape a chance. Interest usually sits on each way prices, forecast and place markets, and matchups between two runners.
Add the event to your calendar to keep the start time as the schedule is confirmed. Kick-off times are checked against the official schedule every week, so this page follows any change.