Mark Zahra’s decision not to ride last year’s Melbourne Cup winner, Gold Trip, was a pivotal one. Despite encountering some criticism, Zahra’s choice proved successful as he clinched consecutive Melbourne Cup victories aboard Without A Fight, trained by Anthony and Sam Freedman.
Starting from an outside draw in stall 16, Zahra adeptly secured a position on the rail. His horse maintained a strong performance, staying competitive despite the brisk pace set by 2020 Derby winner Serpentine. As the 23 runners entered the home stretch, the spotlight was on the heavily favored Vauban and Absurde, both hailing from Willie Mullins’ stable and leading the field. However, Vauban’s chances waned, and Mark Zahra, donning bright yellow silks, made a decisive move alongside Absurde.
Sheikh Mohammed Obaid’s Without A Fight surged ahead as they approached the final furlong and eventually pulled away to become the 12th horse to achieve the rare Caulfield Cup-Melbourne Cup double, a feat last accomplished by Ethereal in 2001. In contrast, Absurde finished in seventh place, Vauban disappointed with a 14th-place finish, and Gold Trip landed in 17th place.
Zahra expressed his confidence in Without A Fight, noting, “He was composed on the rail, and I had faith in his speed, as he possesses a remarkable turn of foot. When I moved away from the rail, he accelerated effectively, and despite taking the lead early, I sensed no one would catch up from behind.”
Zahra also emphasized the significance of his second Melbourne Cup win, stating, “Even if I had faltered, I would still have a Melbourne Cup victory on my record, which boosted my confidence, particularly when riding a formidable horse like him.”
Choosing Without A Fight over Gold Trip was a challenging decision for Zahra, especially considering Gold Trip’s recent victory in the Turnbull Stakes at the same track. However, the rider believed that various factors favored Without A Fight. He consulted with Mark Hunter and carefully considered the race conditions and weather forecast, ultimately feeling confident about his choice. Despite encountering criticism for his decision, Zahra felt vindicated when Without A Fight emerged victorious.
This Melbourne Cup victory marked a significant achievement for the Freedman team, their first since Anthony’s brother Lee Freedman trained Makybe Diva to a historic hat-trick in 2005.
Sam Freedman conveyed the importance of this victory for the family, stating, “This is an exceptional moment; it has been a memorable race for the family, and it’s gratifying to secure another victory. Without A Fight has been thriving, and Mark, who has established a strong rapport with him, delivered an outstanding performance. He is an extraordinary horse and demonstrated remarkable acceleration akin to a sprinter in the final two furlongs. The team’s efforts in preparing him have been extraordinary.”
Both the first and second-place horses were previously trained in Newmarket. Without A Fight secured seven wins under the training of Simon and Ed Crisford, while Soulcombe, who overcame a slow start under Joao Moreira, had previously won the Melrose under William Haggas before joining Chris Waller.
Chris Waller acknowledged the winner’s superior performance, stating, “Soulcombe had the potential to win the race, but full credit goes to the victor. He possesses the form of a weight-for-age horse and displays his superiority. Although missing the starting line wasn’t ideal, Salcombe is a genuine stayer, and he will have more opportunities. He has some quirks, but with time, we will harness his potential.”
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