Caulfield Guineas placegetter Evaporate is poised to be among the final acceptances for the $5 million Cox Plate, pending a successful workout on Tuesday morning. Co-trainer Ben Hayes confirmed that if the three-year-old performs well, Evaporate will likely become the seventh confirmed runner for the prestigious race.
Originally slated for the Carbine Club Stakes at Flemington, the horse’s strong post-Guineas form has prompted a change in strategy. Hayes emphasised Evaporate’s unbeaten record at The Valley and the impressive performances of three-year-olds in the Cox Plate as key reasons for targeting the race. “He beat home Broadsiding last start… we thought it would be a good opportunity to have a go,” said Hayes.
Jockey Karis Teetan is on hold to ride Evaporate, with a final decision to be made following the workout. Hayes remains confident in Evaporate’s ability to handle the 2040-metre distance, citing the horse’s breeding and “big, lovely stride.” The colt’s career-peak performance in the Caulfield Guineas further reinforces Hayes’ optimism.
Evaporate is currently an $18 chance in Cox Plate odds with online betting sites.