Mapping out another 2025 Melbourne Cup campaign

South Australian staying mare The Map will make an unexpected return to the big stage this spring, with trainer Dan Clarken confirming a bold shot at the Melbourne Cup.

The multiple Stakes winner had been headed for retirement earlier this year after an aborted autumn campaign but was brought back into work following her failure to meet reserve as a broodmare prospect at the Inglis Chairman’s Sale in Sydney.

The daughter of Alpine Eagle resumed with a soft 1000-metre trial at Murray Bridge last Monday, and Clarken says she has been building fitness steadily over recent weeks.

Although the 2025 Melbourne Cup — where she sits at $101 in early markets — is the dream target, Clarken has mapped out several other possible staying races in case the Cup is not within reach.

“She spelled really well and she’s probably twice as big as we’ve ever seen her so it may take a little bit of time to get it off her,” Clarken said.

“There’s a big whiteboard at home with races mapped out all over the thing but the reality is that there are heaps of options for her.

“You’d love to be able to get her back to a Melbourne Cup.

“Whether it happens is a different story but we’re certainly going to give her the option to do it but it’s a long spring and there are plenty of nice races for her.”

In Monday’s trial, jockey Emily Finnegan allowed The Map to settle at the tail before she finished off strongly, five lengths from winner Rubamos.

Clarken was pleased with the mare’s effort, even with her familiar tardiness from the gates.

“It was her first bit of work (for the preparation) and she was good, although she was up to her same old antics and was a little bit slow into stride.

“She worked to the line well without being knocked around.

“She’s pretty well where I want her at this stage.”