Geelong Cup - any guide for the Melbourne Cup?

Over the last twelve years the Geelong Cup has built-up a reputation as a useful form guide for the big race run less then two weeks later. In 2002 Media Puzzle won the race and went on to claim the ultimate prize wining the Melbourne Cup in the same year. Following that win, it became the lead in race of choice for three other International raiders, two who went on to complete the Geelong Cup - Melbourne Cup double in the same year. Americain and Dunaden in 2010 and 2011 respectively, and Bauer in 2008 who came very close, finishing second.

This year's field saw several early omissions when Peter Moody pulled Lidari and Brambles, and Lloyd Williams pulled Green Moon and Sea Moon after their Caulfield Cup runs, leaving a 13 horse field to contest the race. The track should be a Dead (4) with the rail in its true position and is expected to provide a fair run for all starters over the 2400 metre course, regardless of their barrier position.

The speed map is a an interesting one with little noted pace in the race, potentially proving a challenge for back markers. The Patrick Payne trained Zanbagh drops 3 kilograms from the weight she carried in the Benalla Cup when she finished third after being out sprinted when they quickened at the 400 metre mark. She boasts seconds in both the 2013 Group 1 VRC Oaks and this year's Australian Oaks when she split Caulfield Cup place getters,Lucia Valentina and Rising Romance. Zanbagh and Sertorious are the only two horses running in the Geelong Cup who have secured a start in the Melbourne Cup, however Payne is doubtful that he will give Zanbagh a start on November 4th if she doesn't run a good race tomorrow.

Horses in the fixed odds market with Ladbrokes for tomorrow's Cup include the Peter Moody trained More Than Sacred who is favourite at $5.50, Sertorius $6, Caravan Rolls On $7, Shoreham $7.50, Marksmanship $8, Like A Carousel $9 and Wish Come True $10.

To get the view from smart punters and Australia's top media tipsters make sure you check out the tip market for your Geelong Cup race day tips.