90/1 Shot Knight's Choice Shocks the World with Melbourne Cup Victory
Australian-bred Knight's Choice has pulled off a shocking victory in the 2024 Melbourne Cup, edging out Japanese runner Warp Speed in a photo finish at Flemington Racecourse.
This win marks a career highlight for Irish jockey Robbie Dolan, who was racing in the Melbourne Cup for the first time. Guided expertly through the field by Dolan, Knight's Choice managed to squeeze out a victory by just a nose, leaving fans and trainers alike stunned by the impressive finish.
For Dolan, the win was surreal. “Pinch me, I’m dreaming... I can't believe it," he shared, overwhelmed by the moment. Having previously gained public attention through a stint on The Voice Australia, Dolan made headlines for his vocal talents before his racing abilities. This triumph marks a shift in his journey, cementing his name in the history of one of Australia’s most prestigious races.
The 90-1 outsider status made Knight's Choice an unlikely contender for victory. However, New Zealand trainer Sheila Laxon, who co-trains with her husband John Symons, remained confident. This win gave Laxon her second Melbourne Cup, following her success with Ethereal in 2001. The race also held personal significance for Dolan, whose father, Bobby Dolan, surprised him by showing up in Australia to watch his son race.
Rounding out the top three were Warp Speed in second and Okita Soushi in third. Japanese-trained Warp Speed put up a strong fight, narrowly missing victory.
Kosi Kawakami, a spokesperson for Warp Speed's trainer Noboru Takagi, said, “It was obviously a great run... we were confident but at the same time, we just can never be sure in racing.”
The European horses, initially seen as strong challengers, couldn’t keep up. Ireland’s Absurde was the best finisher among them, placing fifth, while other notable contenders, including Vauban, Onesmoothoperator, and Sea King, finished well down the field. Despite high hopes, the European contingent ultimately failed to make the mark, dominated instead by Knight's Choice and Warp Speed in the final strides.
For Laxon and Symons, this victory was a celebration of dedication and teamwork.
Laxon highlighted the immense support they received, stating, “We've got some fabulous owners and had lots of help along the way." Symons added, “This is the pinnacle of all pinnacles, we've just won the Melbourne Cup."
The 2024 Melbourne Cup was yet another display of the unpredictability and excitement that defines the race. With a record crowd decked out in vibrant spring attire under sunny skies, the “race that stops a nation” did not disappoint, delivering a thrilling finish that will be remembered for years to come.
