With four Melbourne Cup starts under his belt, Vow And Declare is Australia’s true war horse, but he won’t return to the first Tuesday in November again, with connections still keen to race on however.
Rated a $7.50 chance with bookies, Vow And Declare, a previous Melbourne Cup winner, burst through a pack of horses to grab the $200,000 prize.
Part-owner Leitch watched on in awe of his Melbourne Cup winner, which was once passed in at the sales when he couldn’t reach the $70,000 reserve, and took his earnings towards the $8 million mark.
“He’s won a Melbourne Cup, so that’s the pinnacle, but it was special today,” Leitch said.
“It has been a long journey, and bloody hell, he is still giving, what a tremendous horse.
“It is fitting, it was the winter carnival in 2019 where it all started for us – Eagle Farm has been really good to us, he would then go on to Melbourne cup victory.
“No more Melbourne Cup for him, we think the distance has got a bit too much for him.
“I think he will keep racing for the time being.”
Incredibly, it was just Vow And Declare’s second win since the 2019 Melbourne Cup, also overcoming a serious tendon injury which almost saw him retired.
“He’s a champion,” jockey Billy Egan declared about the Melbourne Cup winner.
“I’ve ridden him his last eight starts, second in Group 1s, but this is actually my first victory aboard him. I’m absolutely rapt to ride a winner on a Melbourne Cup winner.
“He’s an out-and-out stayer. Since he got up here (Queensland), each run I see him in the mounting yard, his coat has improved and he was screaming out for the 2400m this preparation.” said about the Melbourne Cup winner
The Melbourne Cup is one of the most iconic horse races in the world, steeped in tradition and renowned for its thrilling competition. Held annually on the first Tuesday in November at Flemington Racecourse in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, it is a key event in the Australian cultural and sporting calendar, earning the moniker “the race that stops a nation.” This essay delves into the rich history of the Melbourne Cup, its cultural significance, and a detailed look at the 2019 race won by Vow And Declare.
The Melbourne Cup was first run on November 7, 1861. Its creation was driven by the Victoria Turf Club, which sought to promote horse racing and attract crowds to Flemington Racecourse. The inaugural race was over two miles (approximately 3,200 meters), a distance that later defined the race’s unique challenge. Seventeen horses competed in the first race, with a prize of £710 and a gold watch. Archer, ridden by jockey John Cutts and trained by Etienne de Mestre, emerged victorious. Archer went on to win the Cup again the following year, establishing an early legacy.
The race was initially run as a handicap, a format that continues today, where horses carry varying weights based on their ability to level the playing field. This handicap system adds an extra layer of strategy and unpredictability, making each Melbourne Cup a unique contest.
The Melbourne Cup quickly grew in popularity, becoming a focal point of Australian social life. The race attracted not just racing enthusiasts but also a broader audience eager to participate in the festivities. By 1875, the Melbourne Cup was already drawing crowds of 80,000 people.
The race’s significance increased further in 1877 when a public holiday was declared in Melbourne for Cup Day. This allowed more people to attend and participate in the celebrations, cementing the event as a major fixture in Australian culture. Over the years, the race distance was adjusted to 3,200 meters in 1972 to conform with the metrication in Australia, but its core challenge remained unchanged.
The Melbourne Cup has seen numerous memorable moments and legendary horses. In 1930, Phar Lap, one of the most celebrated horses in Australian history, won the Cup during a dominant period in his career. Phar Lap’s story captured the public’s imagination, particularly during the tough economic times of the Great Depression, and his victory in the Cup remains one of the race’s most iconic moments.
In 1965, Light Fingers, trained by the legendary Bart Cummings, won the Melbourne Cup, marking the beginning of Cummings’ extraordinary success in the race. Known as the “Cups King,” Cummings won the Melbourne Cup a record 12 times, a testament to his training prowess and deep understanding of the race.
The 1980s and 1990s saw international interest in the Melbourne Cup grow, with increasing numbers of foreign horses competing. In 1993, Vintage Crop, trained by Irishman Dermot Weld, became the first internationally trained horse to win the Cup. This victory opened the door for more international competitors and elevated the race’s global prestige.
The 2019 Melbourne Cup was a highly anticipated event, with a competitive field featuring a mix of international and local talent. Vow And Declare, a locally bred and trained horse, entered the race as one of the contenders but was not the outright favorite. Trained by Danny O’Brien and ridden by jockey Craig Williams, Vow And Declare had shown promise in previous races but faced stiff competition from a strong field of international horses.
Vow And Declare’s preparation for the Cup involved a series of carefully selected races to build stamina and form. Leading up to the Melbourne Cup, Vow And Declare placed second in the Caulfield Cup, a significant precursor race that provided valuable insight into his capabilities over longer distances.
The Melbourne Cup on November 5, 2019, saw favorable weather conditions, with a large crowd gathered at Flemington Racecourse. The race included a competitive field of 24 horses from various parts of the world, reflecting the Cup’s international allure. Vow And Declare started from barrier 21, a wide position that posed a challenge in terms of early race positioning.
As the race began, jockey Craig Williams, known for his tactical acumen, settled Vow And Declare towards the front of the field. This positioning was crucial for a horse drawn wide, as it minimized the distance covered and allowed Vow And Declare to stay clear of traffic issues that could arise from being boxed in. Throughout the race, Williams kept Vow And Declare in a forward position, biding his time and conserving energy for the final stages.
The race unfolded with a strong pace set by early leaders, including Twilight Payment and Master of Reality. Vow And Declare remained prominently positioned, maintaining a steady rhythm and staying close to the leaders. As the field approached the final turn, the pace quickened, and the competition intensified.
In the final 400 meters, the race turned into a thrilling battle. Vow And Declare, showing remarkable stamina and determination, surged forward. Jockey Craig Williams expertly navigated through the field, finding gaps and guiding Vow And Declare into a challenging position on the inside rail. The final furlong saw a gripping contest as several horses vied for the lead.
Vow And Declare, demonstrating resilience and a powerful finishing kick, took the lead in the final strides. The crowd erupted in excitement as he crossed the finish line just ahead of his rivals, clinching victory in the 2019 Melbourne Cup. The final margin was narrow, with Vow And Declare winning by a head in a time of 3 minutes and 24.76 seconds.
Vow And Declare’s victory in the 2019 Melbourne Cup was met with widespread acclaim and celebration. It marked the first win for an Australian-bred horse in nearly a decade, and the triumph was seen as a testament to the skill of local breeders, trainers, and jockeys in a race increasingly dominated by international entrants.
For trainer Danny O’Brien, the win represented the pinnacle of his career and a reward for his meticulous preparation and strategic planning. Craig Williams, who had ridden in numerous Melbourne Cups without a win, achieved a lifelong dream with this victory, completing his set of wins in all major Australian horse races.
Vow And Declare’s win also resonated with the Australian public, who took pride in the success of a locally bred horse in a field of global competitors. The victory underscored the enduring appeal of the Melbourne Cup as a race that blends tradition with international competition, showcasing the best of Australian and global horse racing.
The Melbourne Cup is more than just a horse race; it is a cultural phenomenon in Australia. Each year, millions of Australians participate in Cup Day festivities, whether by attending the race, watching it on television, or participating in office sweeps and celebrations. The public holiday in Melbourne allows people to fully engage with the event, making it a day of national excitement and unity.
Fashion is a significant aspect of Melbourne Cup Day, with racegoers donning elaborate outfits and competing in fashion competitions. The race’s association with high fashion and social gatherings adds to its allure, making it a must-attend event on the social calendar.
The Melbourne Cup’s international profile has grown significantly, attracting horses, trainers, and jockeys from around the world. The race’s substantial prize money and prestige draw top competitors from countries such as the United Kingdom, Ireland, Japan, and the United States. This global participation enhances the race’s competitiveness and raises its status as a premier event in the international racing calendar.
The success of international horses in the Melbourne Cup has also fostered a greater exchange of racing techniques and breeding practices between Australia and other countries. The race serves as a platform for showcasing international talent and promoting the global interconnectedness of horse racing.
The Melbourne Cup has substantial economic and social impacts. It generates significant revenue for the racing industry, tourism, and local businesses. The event attracts visitors from across Australia and overseas, boosting hotel occupancy, hospitality, and retail sectors.
The race also supports charitable causes, with various initiatives and partnerships raising funds for community organizations. The Melbourne Cup Carnival, which includes several days of racing and associated events, contributes to the broader social fabric of Melbourne and Victoria, fostering a sense of community and celebration.
The Melbourne Cup stands as a testament to the enduring appeal and excitement of horse racing. From its humble beginnings in 1861 to its status as a globally renowned event, the Cup has evolved into a race that captivates a nation and attracts international interest. The 2019 victory of Vow And Declare highlighted the ongoing relevance of local talent in a field of international competitors, symbolizing the race’s unique blend of tradition and global competition.
The Melbourne Cup continues to be a cornerstone of Australian culture, a day of national celebration, and a showcase of the highest standards in horse racing. Its rich history, memorable moments, and cultural significance ensure that it remains “the race that stops a nation” and captivates audiences around the world.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jsawCvzM6o0
This Colt is by Widden Stud’s very exciting young stallion Anders, son of champion sire Not A Single Doubt.
Anders first yearlings have been hugely popular at the sale in 2024 with his yearlings averaging $194k at the January Magic Millions sale making this colt great value.
His dam Happy Pilgrim herself a 3 time winning half sister to Snipzu the Group and Stakes placed dam of 5 runners for 5 winners to date.
Including 3 individual Group and Stakes
horses, most recently the twice Group 1 placed (Blue Diamond and Inglis Sires Produce) Don Corleone.
This Colt is a ½ brother to our very promising 2yo trial winner Private Harry, a horse we have a very high opinion of after winning his trial very impressively.
Beating the subsequent
Blue Diamond Prelude Group 3 placed Holmes A Court and Group 3 Kindergarten placed Halliet in the process.
The Colt was presented at the Inglis Classic Sale by Rheinwood Pastoral, in recent times Rheinwood have produced the highly exciting colt Libertad.
A winner of the Group 3 Kindergarten Stakes at 2 and the Group 3 San Domenico (just like Anders) highlighting their ability to produce top class racehorses to compete at the highest level.
He is a quality early looking sprinting type and shared a lot of similar characteristics to his brother Private Harry. He had a great action and looks very precocious.
He is trained by Nathan Doyle out of the excellent state of the art Newcastle facilities just like his brother. This Colt is eligible for the lucrative Inglis race series and BOBS bonus scheme.
To check out all available exciting racehorse shares opportunities jump over to our website now https://kbloodstock.com.au
Cosmic Force X Miss Marilyn Colt
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nBt772ReHjw
This Colt is by Newgate Farm’s exciting first season sire Cosmic Force, already doing a great job with only a handful of runners so far.
Producing 3 individual Stakes horses including the Blue Diamond Prelude Group 3 runner up Stay Focused and Inglis Nursery runner up Beer Baron.
His dam Miss Marilyn a winner at 1100m is a half sister to the illustrious Group 1 The Galaxy sprint winning earner of over $1.7 million Mistegic and Stakes winner of no less than 11 individual wins Rightson.
This Colt was a real standout for us at the sale from the moment we laid eyes on him we knew we were bringing him home.
He ticked a lot of boxes for us he moved effortlessly, is so well balanced and oozed class. Every time we saw him he just came out and paraded like the utmost professional.
He was presented at the Inglis Classic sale and comes off the Boutique nursery Riverstone Lodge an upbringing that will see him have every chance for success on the track.
He will be trained by Nathan Doyle in Newcastle where he will get every chance.
This Colt is eligible for the lucrative Inglis race series and BOBS bonus scheme.
To Check out all of the exciting Racehorse Shares we have available and dream of being there on the big days like the Melbourne Cup visit https://kbloodstock.com.au
PO Box 3105
Thornton NSW 2322
1300 587 746
office@kbloodstock.com.au