As the final day of the Melbourne Cup Carnival, Stakes Day promises to be the ultimate showcase of racing talent, where champions will vie for glory on one of Australia’s most iconic tracks. The 2024 edition is set to thrill with a lineup of outstanding performances and standout contenders in each of the main races. Here’s a preview of what we can expect on Stakes Day.

Race 6 – Darley Champions Sprint (1200m)

The Darley Champions Sprint will feature a lineup that any racing fan dreams of, headlined by 2024 Everest champion Bella Nipotina and former Everest winner Giga Kick. Both horses are coming into this race with impeccable form, each staking their claim as sprinting royalty.

• Bella Nipotina ($4.4): Coming off back-to-back wins at Rosehill Gardens and Randwick, Bella Nipotina shows no signs of slowing down. Her recent victories reinforce her as a genuine threat, and her odds reflect her strong form. She is expected to be a top contender, with consistency that has made her a fan favorite.
• Giga Kick ($4.8): Known for his Flemington prowess, Giga Kick is a formidable track specialist with two previous wins at this venue. His record of four wins from five races as the favorite speaks volumes, and he is expected to be a dangerous opponent in this race.
• Overpass ($5.75): Another serious contender, Overpass will enter this race with three consecutive wins, the latest being an impressive performance at Randwick. With Joshua Parr in the saddle, he commands respect and poses a significant threat to the field.
• Estriella ($23): The long shot of the race, Estriella will enter with strong form, having dominated her last outing at Caulfield on a soft track. A track specialist with two wins at Flemington, she could be the dark horse who surprises the competition.

Tips for the Sprint: (5) Bella Nipotina, (1) Giga Kick, (2) Overpass, (8) Estriella

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Race 7 – VRC Champions Mile (1600m)

The VRC Champions Mile will assemble a brilliant field, showcasing the talent of both current and future stars. This year’s race is highly anticipated, with a mix of veterans and rising talents ready to take on the prestigious mile.

• Amelia’s Jewel ($15): A consistent performer with three placings from four runs this prep, Amelia’s Jewel will enter the race on a seven-day turnaround. Her recent form positions her as a solid contender, and she is expected to make an impact.
• Antino ($6): Known for his strong finishes, Antino chased down the field to secure victory in his last start at Caulfield. With eight wins from 12 races as a favorite, he enters the Mile in top form, posing a serious threat.
• Another Wil ($9.5): With three wins from four starts this campaign, Another Wil will be coming off a short seven-day back-up. He has shown great promise, and many believe he could shake things up in this highly competitive field.
• Mr Brightside ($6.25): A Flemington veteran with three prior wins at the track, Mr Brightside is expected to be a place chance. His experience and familiarity with the course position him as a contender who can’t be ignored.
  

Tips for the Mile: (11) Amelia’s Jewel, (4) Antino, (6) Another Wil, (1) Mr Brightside

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Race 8 – TAB Champions Stakes (2000m)

The TAB Champions Stakes will offer a star-studded lineup, featuring winners of both the Cox Plate and the Caulfield Cup. This race is attracting Australia’s elite middle-distance competitors, making it one of the most captivating races of the day.

• Via Sistina ($1.55): Coming off a record-setting victory in the Cox Plate, Via Sistina will be the one to beat. With a prior win at Flemington, she enters the Champions Stakes with tremendous momentum and the form to dominate the field.
• Deny Knowledge ($26): Though facing a challenging wide barrier, Deny Knowledge possesses the speed needed to overcome it. A recent winner at Caulfield, she enters the race as a sneaky chance, primed to potentially disrupt the favorites.
• Atishu ($9): Racing on a seven-day back-up, Atishu boasts strong form at Flemington. Known for her resilience and ability to handle the track well, she is viewed as a potential upset waiting to happen.
• Eliyass ($11): With two wins from four starts this campaign, Eliyass comes in strong. The slight drop in distance is expected to work in his favor, positioning him as a real danger to Via Sistina and other top contenders.
  
  

Tips for the Stakes: (10) Via Sistina, (12) Deny Knowledge, (11) Atishu, (6) Eliyass BET NOW!

Conclusion

The 2024 Stakes Day promises an unforgettable end to the Melbourne Cup Carnival, with thrilling races and some of the best talent in Australian racing. From the electrifying sprints of the Darley Champions Sprint to the strategic endurance battles in the VRC Champions Mile and the TAB Champions Stakes, this Stakes Day is set to showcase what makes horse racing such a compelling sport. Fans and punters alike will be eagerly awaiting the results, looking forward to the return of these champions and the emergence of new contenders in the year ahead.