Trainer Chris Waller targets Melbourne Cup and Coolmore Stud Stakes

Trainer Chris Waller is preparing for multiple high-stakes races during the Melbourne Cup carnival. He is aiming to secure a spot for Soulcombe in the Melbourne Cup field by contesting the Group 3 Bendigo Cup. Soulcombe, the 2023 Cup runner-up, will be ridden by Bendigo-raised jockey Nash Rawiller; a top-three finish in the Bendigo Cup would grant the horse entry into the Melbourne Cup.

Waller is also focused on the $2 million Group 1 Coolmore Stud Stakes. He noted that while a Melbourne Cup winner achieves household fame, a Coolmore Stud Stakes winner can reach a valuation of upwards of $30 million due to stallion and breeding potential. Waller has runners in both major events, including St Gotthard, ridden by James McDonald, which is a full brother to his 2024 winner Switzerland.