The talented Irish stayer Vauban will remain in Australia, with Australian Bloodstock confirming his purchase in partnership with renowned trainers Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott. Acquired for $2 million AUD, Vauban will now transition from Willie Mullins’ stable to the care of Waterhouse and Bott.
There are early plans for Vauban to possibly target an autumn racing campaign in Australia before setting his sights on a third attempt at the Melbourne Cup. Jamie Lovett of Australian Bloodstock confirmed the acquisition of the horse, previously owned by Rich Ricci, on Wednesday.
Despite high expectations, Vauban’s past Melbourne Cup performances have been underwhelming, finishing 14th last year and managing only 11th place in this year’s race. Previously, Vauban was set to return to Ireland on Wednesday to prepare for a hurdles campaign aiming at the prestigious Stayers’ Hurdle at Cheltenham in March under Mullins. However, he’ll now take a summer break in New South Wales before joining Waterhouse and Bott’s stable.
The seven-year-old has an impressive record, with eight wins from 21 starts, including three victories over hurdles in the UK. Vauban’s recent trip to Melbourne was marked by a strong lead-up performance, finishing second to world-class stayer Kyprios in the Group 1 Irish St Leger (2800m) at The Curragh.