Dunlop Eyes Elusive Melbourne Win

Trainer Ed Dunlop has some serious decisions to make about where to target his new stablestar Trip To Paris (Ire) (Champs Elysees {GB}). Successful in a handicap at Lingfield in April off a mark of 88, last weeks G1 Ascot Gold winner is now up to a mark of 113 following his biggest triumph and one could argue that the 4-year-old is still improving. Dunlop has gone agonizingly close to winning the G1 Melbourne Cup on three occasions with Red Cadeaux (GB) (Cadeaux Genereux {GB}) and not surprisingly a trip to Flemington is being strongly considered with his highly progressive stablemate. 

Before that though Dunlop is eyeing another valuable prize closer to home. “We are considering the G2 Goodwood Cup. It’s a very valuable race. Of course, he’ll have a penalty and discussions amongst the partnership are very much involved about going to the Melbourne Cup,” reported Dunlop. The Newmarket trainer added, “He’s not a flamboyant worker, but the difference is he has a turn of foot. As you saw in the Ascot Gold Cup he really quickened up the straight. He’s won at a mile and a half so he’s not that slow. He’s also got a wonderful temperament which would stand him in great stead for a long journey to Australia.”