John Velazquez Jnr produced another masterclass in the saddle, guiding Parchment Party to a commanding win in the Belmont Gold Cup at Saratoga, securing a golden ticket into Australia’s Melbourne Cup in November.
Originally scheduled over 3200 metres on turf, the race was shifted to Saratoga’s dirt track and reduced to 2800 metres after heavy rain forced a last-minute change in surface conditions.
Though the track was changed, the Melbourne Cup exemption remained on offer. Four horses were scratched late, including well-backed runner Limited Liability, leaving a field of eight to contest the prize. Parchment Party ($16) adapted best, storming home under Velazquez Jnr after sitting off the speed early.
The Bill Mott-trained four-year-old collared early leader Yo Daddy ($6) in the straight to win by a commanding six lengths, while Padiddle ($13) ran on late to grab third, a similar margin away.
Despite the performance, trainer Mott indicated Parchment Party is unlikely to take up the Melbourne Cup berth due to the horse’s lack of affinity with turf racing, given his dirt-specialist pedigree by Constitution.
This was Velazquez’s third Belmont Gold Cup win in five years—adding to his triumphs aboard Baron Samedi (2021) and The Grey Wizard (2024)—and also his third winner of the Saratoga program on the day.
To follow more international Melbourne Cup qualifiers and early betting action, visit the leading betting sites offering futures markets, expert tips, and racing specials throughout the spring.