October
DecemberInvitation only
Only one Australian/NZ-bred horse finished in the first 10 in this year’s Melbourne Cup.
We were simply outclassed by the international competitors.
There is little doubt that our other major staying races will soon be targeted.
There is no doubt that the local breeding industry needs to ramp up its commitment to improving the quality of our staying stock.
However, this cannot be done overnight.
Accordingly, Racing Victoria should limit the number of international runners in the Melbourne Cup to six, by invitation, for say 10 years. A similar arrangement is in place already for the Japan Cup.
This will give the local breeding industry time to improve the quality of its staying stock.
After this period has elapsed, any such restriction can and should be lifted.
Belmont (Vic)