Trainer Brian Ellison is dreaming of Melbourne Cup success once again after Onesmoothoperator secured a commanding win in the Geelong Cup. The six-year-old, who claimed the Northumberland Plate earlier this year, gave Ellison renewed hope of a Melbourne Cup bid, especially after missing the prestigious race in previous years.
Ellison had strategically selected the Geelong Cup as Onesmoothoperator’s best opportunity to earn a penalty and improve his chances of qualifying for the Melbourne Cup, and it proved a wise decision. Ridden by Craig Williams, the gelding made an impressive move in the final stretch, pulling away to win by two and a quarter lengths, signalling he could be a serious contender on the first Tuesday of November.
Ellison is no stranger to Australian racing. He previously sent Carte Diamond for the 2005 Melbourne Cup but was forced to withdraw due to injury. In 2011, he entered Moyenne Corniche and Saptapadi, though neither placed in the big race.
Reflecting on Onesmoothoperator’s performance, Ellison said, "He was brilliant and has adapted very well to racing here. Craig said he’ll improve for the run, and we’re hopeful he’ll make it into the Cup now."
With £160,000 secured from the Geelong Cup win, Onesmoothoperator has already paid for his trip. Ellison is cautiously optimistic about his Melbourne Cup chances, saying, “It’s a different challenge taking on horses like Vauban, but he’s proven he can win on grass, and we’ll see how he fares.”