2025 Melbourne Cup qualifier a Choice option
A potential Melbourne Cup start is in sight for Bankers Choice as connections eye a run in the Listed Andrew Ramsden Stakes (2800m) at Flemington, which offers an automatic berth into the November classic.
Trained by Ben, Will and JD Hayes, the seven-year-old gelding by Mongolian Khan is already in the Caulfield Cup field after claiming the Mornington Cup last month. A win on Saturday would grant him a second pathway into a major spring staying feature.
“We’re just going to see what he’s like at staying,” said Will Hayes. “We’re not locking anything in yet. His Mornington win showed us he’s in good form, so we’ll be guided by his final gallop.”
The Andrew Ramsden has drawn strong nominations, including proven stayers such as Military Mission, Athabascan and Smokin’ Romans. The race, worth $300,000, could significantly shape the spring Cups picture.
Bankers Choice is part of a significant group of horses inherited from the late Mike Moroney’s stable earlier this month. Lindsay Park has quickly made an impression, with former Ballymore runners Oak Hill and War Machine notching recent Saturday wins.
“We’ve been really fortunate to bring in some lovely horses,” Will Hayes said. “And having someone like Anthony Feroce with us has made the process a lot smoother.”
The Saturday program at Flemington also includes the Listed Straight Six (1200m), with Singapore star Lim’s Kosciuszko among the headliners.
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