New nomination deadline for spring Cups

For the first time in seven years, nominations for the Caulfield Cup and Melbourne Cup will close on the same day.

Racing Victoria has announced nominations for this year’s Caulfield Cup (2400m) and Melbourne Cup (3200m) will close on August 29, meaning the Caulfield Cup nomination deadline has been pushed back three weeks from recent years.

Weights for both races will be released on September 12.

“The return to a common nomination deadline for the Cups avoids confusion for owners and trainers given the similar horse pool and provides greater convenience by eliminating an additional date from the Caulfield Cup nomination process,” RV Executive General Manager of Racing, Greg Carpenter, said.

“The later date for the Caulfield Cup nomination is also significant for international connections as it now falls after the last of the international Caulfield Cup guaranteed-start races, which ensures all of these horses have the opportunity to nominate in the knowledge their place in the final field is assured.”

The Caulfield Cup will be run on October 21, with the Melbourne Cup on November 7.

Nominations for the weight-for-age Cox Plate close on August 8.

Credit: AAP

Stay up to date with the latest racing news
Follow our social accounts to get exclusive content and all the latest racing news!