“I can’t believe what just happened.” – jockey James McDonald after riding Verry Elleegant to Melbourne Cup (G1) glory.
The quality rose to the top and the best of Australia and New Zealand combined in the 161st running of the Lexus Melbourne Cup to deliver one of the greatest wins in the race’s history as Verry Elleegant (Zed – Opulence by Danroad) won the $8 million ‘race that stops a nation’™ at Flemington Racecourse in front of 10,000 spectators.
Verry Elleegant, trained and ridden by Australian-based Kiwi expatriates Chris Waller and James McDonald, came with a sweeping run to score by four lengths – a margin that can only be matched by 2014 hero Protectionist in the last 50 years.
In doing so, the champion mare joined Makybe Diva (2005) and Rain Lover (1969) as reigning Australian Champion Racehorses of the Year to take the Lexus Melbourne Cup. It was also her 10th Group 1 win.
Favourite Incentivise finished a gallant second, locking in the Lexus Melbourne Cup quinella for owners Brae Sokolski and Ozzie Kheir, with quality British raider Spanish Mission a further long neck away in third.
Victoria Racing Club (VRC) Chief Executive Officer Steve Rosich said it was a remarkable achievement from horse and connections.
“What an absolutely thrilling finish with champion mare Verry Elleegant securing her 10th Group 1 win with a stunning victory in the 161st running of the Lexus Melbourne Cup,” Mr. Rosich said.
“Congratulations to master trainer Chris Waller, jockey James McDonald and all the owners, many of whom were on course today watching her make history.
“It was also an absolute privilege to see 10,000 people on track today to enjoy the day at Flemington and we are so grateful to have had crowds back for the race that stops a nation.”
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SHE IS AMAZING. ❤💙
VERRY ELLEEGANT WINS HER 10TH GROUP 1 IN THE LEXUS #MELBOURNECUP.@cwallerracing @FlemingtonVRC pic.twitter.com/L2p2W6EtNB
— Racing.com (@Racing) November 2, 2021
One of the best post-race interviews you'll see…
Show some love for James McDonald. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/SoLeHTrEai
— Racing.com (@Racing) November 2, 2021
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