Mormona chasing Melbourne Cup start in Archer Stakes 2025
Connections of Mormona are hopeful the gelding can take another step towards the Melbourne Cup when lining up in the Group 3 Archer Stakes (2500m) at Flemington.
With 12 horses engaged after the scratching of Smokin’ Romans, Saturday’s Archer presents a direct ballot exemption into the Cup. For Mormona, it marks his second run this spring after a strong resuming effort at Caulfield late last month.
The former French stayer has already proven his stamina, highlighted by his 2800m triumph in the Deane Lester Flemington Cup 1849 in July. That was his first Australian win after a string of competitive performances across Sydney and Melbourne.
Trainer Rob Archibald believes the gelding is primed for the rise in distance. “He’s a true staying horse, the type that gets better the longer the race. His run at Caulfield was excellent considering the short break, and he’s improved since,” Archibald said. “We gave him some time at the beach and he’s bounced back really well.”
Archibald noted Mormona’s proven stamina should be an asset on Saturday. “He’s won over 3000 metres overseas, so these races are right in his wheelhouse. His first-up run gave us confidence he’s heading the right way.”
Michael Dee will again take the reins as Mormona looks to clinch his Cup ticket.
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