Cup raiders settle in Down Under
by Michelle Fortune, 12 October 2008
Aidan O'Brien's intended Melbourne Cup runners have completed their journey to Australia and have entered quarantine at Sandown racecourse.
Septimus, the current favourite for the Cup, Alessandro Volta and Honolulu touched down in Victoria on Saturday afternoon and were reported to be in good condition on their arrival at Sandown where they will spend the next three weeks in isolation.
Assistant trainer Andrew Murphy travelled with the Ballydoyle's party and was pleased with the way they took the journey.
"Everything went fairly well. There were no delays. They are all in good shape," Murphy is quoted as saying by the Herald Sun.
"Septimus ate and drank everything. We didn't weigh them yesterday. It would have been a bit unfair. We'll do that later today."
The Ballydoyle trio made the trip to Australia in the company of Dermot Weld's Profound Beauty, the Richard Gibson-trained Varavees and Yellowstone from Jane Chapple-Hyam's yard.
Dave Phillips cared for Profound Beauty during the 36-hour trip and Weld's stable foreman reported her to be none the worse for the long flight.
"She travelled very well for one that had no travelling experience. She took it all in her stride," Phillips said.
"She lost eight kilos, which is OK. She is a good doer, so I expect her to get back on track pretty quick."
All six horses have already spent two weeks in quarantine and will spend a further three before receiving the all-clear to compete in the Spring Carnival.
Luca Cumani's Mad Rush and Bauer have been in quarantine at Sandown for two weeks.