The 2024 Cox Plate promises to be an exciting contest at Moonee Valley on October 26. With a prize pool of over $5 million, this Group 1 weight-for-age event brings together top-class talent from Australia and internationally. Here’s a runner-by-runner analysis and some key betting tips for the big race.

Race day weather –

Slight chance of a shower in the morning and early afternoon. Unlikely to rain saturday which should put the track in the soft – Good range depending on fridays rain and what fridays racing does to the track.

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2024 Cox Plate Runner-by-Runner Preview

1. Mr Brightside (2) – $8.5

Mr Brightside narrowly missed last year’s Cox Plate and comes off a second in the Caulfield Stakes. Although he’s winless at 2000m, his strong record at Moonee Valley makes him a top chance with winkers on.

2. Prognosis (5) – $3.5

This Japanese raider is a proven international traveler with a solid 2000m record. He can threaten if he jumps cleanly, but a slow start could hurt his chances.

3. Kovalica (9) – $23

Winless at four, but his second in the Hill Stakes over 1900m shows promise. This race is a step up, but he’s racing well.

4. Royal Patronage (3) – $34

A front-runner with consistent form, Royal Patronage will make his own luck. He’s placed well at weight-for-age but hasn’t won over 2000m.

5. Docklands (1) – $18

An international runner with strong form at shorter distances, Docklands struggled at 2112m last start but remains a class horse. The 2000m distance could test him again.

6. Pride of Jenni (7) – $4.8

A bold front-runner with a win at 2000m earlier this year, but with quick back-up and her aggressive racing style, she might struggle to finish strongly against this field.

7. Via Sistina (4) – $4.2

Outstanding over 2000m, Via Sistina bounced back from a defeat to win the Turnbull Stakes. Concerns about a recent trackwork incident might cloud her chances, but if she’s fit, she’s dangerous.

8. Broadsiding (8) – $6

Broadsiding is one of the more exciting prospects, coming into this after winning the Golden Rose. His first attempt at 2000m will test his staying power, but he’s full of potential.

9. Evaporate (6) – $21

A talented three-year-old with strong form at 1600m but untested over 2000m. While his latest run in the Caulfield Guineas was credible, his stamina over this distance is a question mark.

Tips:

1. Mr Brightside (1)
2. Prognosis (2)
3. Via Sistina (7)
4. Broadsiding (8)

This year’s Cox Plate is wide open, with Mr Brightside and Prognosis leading the charge. Via Sistina brings proven 2000m form, while Broadsiding is the dark horse with untapped potential over the trip.

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