Globe will get his chance to shine on racing’s biggest stage when he lines up in the $6 million Group 1 Cox Plate at Moonee Valley on Saturday, marking a meteoric rise for the talented stayer and a dream opportunity for the Mick Price and Michael Kent Jnr training partnership.
Just a month ago, the Kiwi-bred gelding was competing in an 1800m handicap on AFL Grand Final Day. Fast forward four weeks, and he’s earned his shot at Australia’s most prestigious weight-for-age race after a powerful victory in the Group 1 The Might And Power (2000m) at Caulfield, defeating Treasurethe Moment and Buckaroo — both rivals again this weekend.
That performance convinced connections to pay a hefty $200,000 late-entry fee for the Cox Plate, with trainer Mick Price confident the seven-year-old deserves his shot among the elite. “The horse goes into the race at his top and he’s going to have a go,” Price said. “The favourite’s out, he’ll lead, and the others can sit off him — if they’re good enough, they’ll win.”
Globe is expected to roll forward in the 2040m contest, likely dictating the tempo following the Racing Victoria-enforced scratching of Sir Delius. He will face a quality field of nine headed by defending champion Via Sistina, alongside Antino, Aeliana, and Treasurethe Moment.
The wildcard could be Observer, the luckless Caulfield Guineas placegetter, with Godolphin weighing up whether to pay a $100,000 late entry or instead contest the Group 2 Moonee Valley Vase (2040m) as a Victoria Derby lead-up.
Price, who is still chasing his first Cox Plate triumph, said Globe’s fitness and consistency are key. “He’s had hard racing — 1500m, 1700m, then 2000m — so I haven’t asked him to come on further. I just want him to hold that level,” he said.
With Blake Shinn opting to ride Antino, Ben Melham will take over aboard Globe in what promises to be one of the most fascinating Cox Plates in recent memory.
For full odds, markets, and betting offers on the Cox Plate, visit Australia’s top betting sites.