Star Hong Kong-based jockey, Zac Purton, is set to join forces with trainer Willie Mullins for this year’s Melbourne Cup, riding Absurde in a partnership that has been a decade in the making.
Purton’s previous collaboration with Mullins in the Melbourne Cup dates back to 2017 when he rode Max Dynamite to a third-place finish. However, his connection with the trainer goes even further back.
In 2013, Purton was on standby to ride Mullins’ Simenon in the Cup, although his services were ultimately not required as Irish jockey Richard Hughes managed to make it to Melbourne in time to fulfill the engagement.
Beyond his Melbourne Cup ride with Absurde, Purton will return to Australia during the spring season to ride Light Infantry in the King Charles III Stakes and Cox Plate. Additionally, he has secured his first-ever ride in The Everest, partnering with In Secret for Godolphin.
“I’m eagerly anticipating the experience and being a part of this special day,” Purton expressed. “The upcoming month promises to be thrilling, and we’ll see how it unfolds for us.”
Absurde is a $17 chance in Melbourne Cup odds with bookmaker swiftbet.
