Trainer Maher sets Melbourne Cup record with seven runners

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 31 Oct, 16:44 · Archive

Trainer Ciaron Maher will enter a record seven runners in the Melbourne Cup, breaking the previous mark of six set in 2013.

Ciaron Maher will set a new Melbourne Cup record by fielding seven runners in the race at Flemington on Tuesday, surpassing Robert Hickmott's previous mark of six runners set in 2013. The favourite is Point Of Law, with Shockletz, Juja Jibo and Middle Earth among the leading contenders. Maher will also saddle Zahrann, Mr Monaco and Royal Supremacy.

Maher says the record has been a decade in the making. 'I'm very proud of the team and it hasn't just happened. It's a result of the last 10 years and, without getting too carried away, I'm thrilled,' he said. 'You're rapt to have one runner in the race, let alone seven.'

Despite fielding almost one-third of the field, Maher cautioned against over-optimism. His only previous Melbourne Cup triumph was with Gold Trip in 2022. 'What's better than winning one? Winning another,' he said. 'It's one of the biggest races on the planet and I'm a horse trainer, so you would love to win, and we've got a really good hand leading in.' Point Of Law drew barrier nine for jockey Ethan Brown, which Maher described as 'ideal'.

How it is being reported

• Melbourne Cup record a 'thrill' for master trainerCiaron Maher will set a new mark with a record number of Melbourne Cup runners, spearheaded by favourite Point Of Law.Perth Now · 31 Oct, 16:33
• Melbourne Cup record a 'thrill' for master trainerCiaron Maher will set a new mark with a record number of Melbourne Cup runners, spearheaded by favourite Point Of Law.The West Australian · 31 Oct, 16:32

In this story: Ciaron Maher · Point Of Law · Robert Hickmott · Ethan Brown · Melbourne Cup · Flemington

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