CHAPADA'S BID FOR CUP GLORY

Three runners for us on Caulfield Cup day headed by Chapada in the feature.

Chapada (pictured) has drawn barrier 16 in the Caulfield Cup and has Daniel Stackhouse in the saddle.

“The track has come up a heavy 8 and he has the wide draw but I could not be happier with the horse,” Mike said.

“His last piece of work on Tuesday was excellent and I could not be happier with him.

“The ground is a query but he was placed his only go on a heavy track in the Rosehill Guineas and he has won on the soft and it’s the same for everyone.

“From the draw we’ll likely try and be midfield but we’ll keep an eye on how it is racing during the day. He’s the sort of horse if he can get a cart into the race and then wait till the last minute to present him then that’s his best chance.

“It looks an open race and it’s the one we’ve set him for and as long as he can handle the ground I’m confident he can figure in the finish.”

Buffalo River runs in race six, the Moonga Stakes over 1400m with Jye McNeil in the saddle.

“He’s had a quiet week after running last Saturday and he’s eaten well and freshened up nicely after a week off the pony,” Mike said.

“He is one horse who will be suited by the ground today, there looks to be a bit of speed in the race which could make it awkward.

“Third run this time in is why I’ve kept him fresh and with ordinary luck I’m sure he’ll be hard to beat.”

Hang Man starts a new campaign in the same race with Daniel Stackhouse aboard from barrier six.

“He’s had a soft jumpout coming into this but he’s fit enough to kick off,” Mike said.

“He looks terrific and in really good order - I’d be thinking they will be too quick for him early but he can be warming up late and then improve off the outing.”