VOW INTO CUP FIELD

Vow And Declare is into the final 24 horses for the Melbourne Cup for the first time following third declarations for the race on Monday.

The Danny O’Brien-trained stayer was the big firmer for the Melbourne Cup following his second placing in the Caulfield Cup, but until Monday he was not certain of gaining a run in the $8 million race.

But after third declarations, Vow And Declare was into 22nd spot after 42 stayers were paid up for.

Vow And Declare is on BetEasy’s third line of betting at $11 alongside Finche and Surprise Baby and behind Constantinople ($8) and Mer De Glace ($9).

All the big names were there – last year’s winner Cross Counter and runner-up Marmelo, Caulfield Cup winner Mer De Glace as well as favourite Constantinople and the likes of Mirage Dancer and Prince of Arran.

Saturday’s group 3 Lexus Hotham Handicap (2500m), won last year by Prince Of Arran, offers a final chance for horses to secure a guaranteed start in the Melbourne Cup.

Notable horses to have dropped off the Melbourne Cup entry list include Avilius, Homesman, Yucatan, Verry Elleegant, Shraaoh, Mr Quickie and Big Duke.

Final acceptances for the Melbourne Cup will be taken at 4.30pm on Saturday. Prior to that, the top 35 acceptors will undergo a compulsory examination by RV veterinarians on Thursday and Friday to determine their suitability to accept.

Click here to view 2019 Melbourne Cup Order Of Entry after 3rd Declarations

Story by Andrew Eddy for Racing.com

Pic by Racing Photos