Freedman hoping the 2025 Cox Plate is a war of Attrition

Mitchell Freedman’s dream of contesting the Cox Plate is about to be fulfilled this weekend at Moonee Valley.

The Ballarat horseman will saddle Attrition in Saturday’s 2040m weight-for-age showpiece, hoping the gelding can deliver a surprise result in one of Australia’s most prestigious races.

Attrition sits at $34 alongside Light Infantry Man in betting for the eight-horse Cox Plate, with last year’s winner Via Sistina the clear $2.20 favourite.

Although without a win in over 12 months, the Churchill gelding has proven a model of consistency and gets his long-awaited opportunity at Group 1 glory.

He comes off a strong second in the Hill Stakes (1900m) at Rosehill on October 11, following a solid third to Pride Of Jenni in the Feehan Stakes (1600m) at The Valley.

“We always had it pencilled in that we would try and go to the race this year,” Freedman said.

“It’s been a dream to have a runner in the race, and we’ve shared that dream with the owners.

“He ran really well the last time, and he’s been in and around the mark at weight-for-age for a long time now and he deserves a crack at it.”

Freedman also praised Kerrin McEvoy’s daring mid-race move in the Hill Stakes, which saw Attrition surge forward and challenge the leader Lindermann.

“That was pretty bold by Kerrin McEvoy,” Freedman said.

“I don’t reckon there would have been too many riders do what he did. It was a bold move, it worked out well and he really stuck on and his work near the line was really super.

“I’ve been really happy with him since and we’re really looking forward to the Cox Plate.”

Craig Williams will take over riding duties on Saturday.

Those planning to bet on the Cox Plate can find top odds and offers from major Australian betting sites such as Sportsbet, Ladbrokes and TAB.