Appleby enjoys ‘special day’ in Melbourne

Horse Racing
Appleby enjoys 'special day' in Melbourne

Charlie Appleby said it was ‘a special day’ after Cross Counter became the first British-trained horse to win the Melbourne Cup.

The three-year-old Godolphin-owned bay gelding made a late surge for the line at Flemington under the guidance of jockey Kerrin McEvoy to pip fellow British runners Marmelo and Prince Of Arran for the history-making victory.

Appleby, who also enjoyed success with Masar in the Epsom Derby in June, told Channel 7: ‘It’s a very special day for us all.

‘For me, it’s obviously very special to be here, but for the team, it’s just fantastic.

I’ve spoken to His Highness (Sheikh Mohammed) and he’s over the moon about this result – it’s a challenge that’s been a long road.

‘I can’t thank everyone enough.

It’s a day I will never forget.

It’s been a very memorable day.

‘ McEvoy added: ‘What a thrill – to do it for Sheikh Mohammed and Charlie Appleby.

Obviously Godolphin has been a huge supporter of mine.

Well done to Charlie and this little horse.

‘I was back a little bit further than I wanted, I knew I was full of running and at the furlong I thought ‘is this happening again?’ I’m just lucky I can ride light and he’s been unbelievably well prepared by Charlie Appleby.’

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