Globe will take his place among Australia’s best middle-distance horses when he lines up in Saturday’s $6 million Group 1 Cox Plate at Moonee Valley, capping a remarkable rise for the Mick Price and Michael Kent Jnr-trained gelding.
Just four weeks ago, the seven-year-old was beaten in an 1800m handicap, but a stunning victory in the Group 1 Might And Power (2000m) at Caulfield has propelled him into Cox Plate contention. That performance against Treasurethe Moment and Buckaroo convinced connections to pay a $200,000 late-entry fee for a shot at the country’s premier weight-for-age contest.
Trainer Mick Price said Globe was ready to give his all. “The horse goes into the race at his top, and he’s going to have a go,” Price said. “He’ll roll forward, and if they’re good enough to get past him, so be it.”
With Sir Delius scratched on veterinary advice, Globe will likely lead a small field of nine that includes defending champion Via Sistina, Antino, and Aeliana. “He’s in great shape,” Price added. “He’s had tough racing this prep — 1500m, 1700m, 2000m — and we’ve kept him right where we want him.”
Ben Melham takes the reins, replacing Blake Shinn, who has committed to Antino. Meanwhile, Godolphin continues to deliberate over a late Cox Plate entry for Observer, the Caulfield Guineas placegetter.
For the latest odds, speed maps, and bookmaker offers on the Cox Plate, visit Australia’s leading betting sites.