Absurde in order for tilt at the Caulfield Cup 2025
After two previous Melbourne Cup tilts without a local lead-up, Irish trainer Willie Mullins will take a different approach with seasoned stayer Absurde, who will contest Saturday’s Group 1 Caulfield Cup (2400m) before heading to Flemington.
Assistant trainer David Casey, who has travelled with the horse on all three of his Australian campaigns, said the team wanted to give Absurde a run under local conditions before the Melbourne Cup (3200m) on November 4.
“We’ve come out early to get a run into him this time,” Casey said. “We’ve done it before with others, and we thought it would suit him. He likes a good gallop and a strong tempo — hopefully, they go hard.”
Absurde has once again settled into his usual Werribee stable and appears to have relished the familiar surroundings. “He’s used to the travel now — he knows where he is,” Casey said. “He’s enjoying the sunshine, and the wind doesn’t bother him. He worked nicely on Thursday.”
Former stablemate Vauban, now trained by Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott, will also line up in the Caulfield Cup in what shapes as a fascinating international clash.
Casey confirmed Absurde will remain at Werribee for his final hit-out rather than galloping at Caulfield during the week. “He’s in a good place and doesn’t need much more,” Casey said. “After Saturday, all roads lead to Flemington.”
Mullins has yet to confirm his travel plans but is expected to arrive closer to race day. For betting and market updates on the Caulfield Cup and Melbourne Cup, visit Australia’s top betting sites.
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