Third time lucky for 2025 Caulfield Cup contender Vauban

Seasoned traveller Vauban will add another chapter to his international story when he steps out for the first time at Caulfield on Saturday in the Group 1 Caulfield Cup (2400m), as part of his lead-up to the Melbourne Cup (3200m) next month.

Previously trained in Ireland by Willie Mullins, Vauban contested the Melbourne Cup on both his prior visits to Australia, finishing 11th last year. Following that effort, he was purchased by Australian Bloodstock and transferred to the Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott stable, who have crafted a more patient, tactical preparation this spring.

Waterhouse said Vauban had acclimatised beautifully since arriving last week and looks in outstanding condition heading into Saturday’s race.

“His coat is gleaming. He’s a very happy horse,” Waterhouse said.

“Blake rode him the other day and was over the moon with him.

“It’s a hard race. They’ve all got their chance, and they’ve all got their reason for being there.

“But Vauban, he’s really happy, he’s healthy and he’s sound. He’s ready to pounce.”

After struggling with pre-race nerves during his previous Melbourne campaigns, the gelding has responded well to the Waterhouse–Bott stable’s structured approach, showing greater composure at home and in his jumpouts.

Waterhouse believes the wide draw in barrier 13 will actually play to his advantage, allowing jockey Blake Shinn to keep him in clear running.

“I don’t think he’s had the right positioning in races. He’s been in the wrong place at the wrong time, but that’s just life sometimes,” Waterhouse said.

“Saturday’s race will suit him well. There will be good pace on. Blake will understand that, and he was my jockey in Sydney for a long time.”

As for concerns that Caulfield can trouble horses unfamiliar with its tight turns, Waterhouse was dismissive.

“He’s a horse that has travelled the world, so why won’t he handle Caulfield,” she said. “He’s there to win, but it will also set him up nicely for Flemington.”

Punters keen to bet on Vauban in the Caulfield Cup or futures for the Melbourne Cup can check Australia’s top betting sites — among the most searched platforms on Google for spring carnival racing odds, offers, and promotions.