The horse to beat in the Group 1 Cox Plate

The Group 1 Cox Plate will be run over 2040m at Moonee Valley on Saturday.

Hong Kong visitor Romantic Warrior won last year under James McDonald who also piloted Anamoe to the 2022 edition.

Other recent winners include State Of Rest, Sir Dragonet and Lys Gracieux which follows a remarkable four-peat by Winx.

Read our analysis of the race below:

The Cox Plate, hey. What a race.

If this Japanese galloper is as good as everyone is saying, then it’s probably in the bag.

But if Prognosis doesn’t jump with them, which has been his issue at times, he might find himself a fair few lengths off likely tearaway leader Pride Of Jenni.

That scenario sets up the potential for a very tantalising spectacle.

It could all come down to tactics and if Declan Bates gets his way in front then Jenni might just be a Cox Plate champion for Ciaron Maher who is winning plenty of majors at the moment.

Of course, it won’t be that easy in such a massive race with so many quality animals breathing down her neck, but if she’s far enough in front on the turn then she’ll take some beating.

Despite the mini-setback suffered by Via Sistina at The Valley at Breakfast with the Best on Tuesday, she should run well and will be chiming in at the business end for J-Mac.

Last year’s runner-up, Mr Brightside, will also fly at Jenni late and could run on for another Cox Plate placing while Prognosis, if anywhere near his best, will likely be in the finish.

Cannot wait for this race!

Selections

6 - Pride Of Jenni
7 - Via Sistina
1 - Mr Brightside
2 - Prognosis

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