While not a guarantee, a strong performance in the Group 1 TAB Turnbull Stakes (2000m) or Group 3 The Bart Cummings (2500m) often hints at a horse’s staying potential and ability to handle the two-mile challenge of the race that stops a nation®.
In 2022, Gold Trip (FR) ran fifth in the Turnbull, setting the scene for his victory in the Lexus Melbourne Cup that same year. While connections were hoping for a back-to-back win when he then won the Turnbull in 2023, it was not to be, with the French-bred horse coming in at 17th.
Verry Elleegant (NZ) finished a respectable fourth in the 2021 Turnbull Stakes before conquering the Melbourne Cup just weeks later. This mighty mare proved that even without a Turnbull victory, a strong showing can signal a horse’s readiness for the ultimate test.
Fourth place in the Turnbull seems to be a recurring theme for Melbourne Cup champions. Vow And Declare also claimed fourth in the 2019 Turnbull before his memorable Lexus Melbourne Cup victory. Does the Turnbull provide the perfect platform for these stayers to fine-tune their form and stamina ahead of the big race?
Fiorente (IRE), the 2013 Melbourne Cup champion, was also a fourth-place finisher, going onto a third placing in the Cox Plate before claiming the Lexus Melbourne Cup for champion trainer, Gai Waterhouse.
Almandin (GER), the 2016 Melbourne Cup winner, showcased his staying prowess by winning The Bart Cummings (a key lead-up race to the Lexus Melbourne Cup) held on Turnbull Stakes Day.
And let’s not forget Green Moon (IRE), who stormed to victory in the 2012 Turnbull Stakes before claiming the Lexus Melbourne Cup crown.
