Aethelwulf wins Newcastle Gold Cup, eyeing Melbourne Cup

The four-year-old galloper Aethelwulf secured his fourth consecutive victory with a dominant win in the Group 3 $300,000 Newcastle Gold Cup at Broadmeadow. Entering the race as the $1.20 favourite, the Matthew Smith-trained stayer won by more than two lengths, defeating Steel Blaze and Bella Montagna.

Following the win, trainer Matthew Smith indicated that the horse could be targeted toward the Group 1 Melbourne Cup on November 3, or alternatively, the Group 3 Bart Cummings or the Group 2 The Metropolitan at Royal Randwick. Jockey Zac Lloyd praised the horse’s progression and ability to outstay seasoned rivals and Group 1 winners.

Aethelwulf has now won five of his seven career starts, bringing his total earnings to approximately $380,000.