Yucatan will have to defy Melbourne Cup history and overcome a Flemington hoodoo after drawing barrier 23, triggering an immediate betting drift.
No horse has won from gate 23 since mudlark Van der Hum in 1976, although Heartbreak City came within a whisker of doing so two years ago when denied by Almandin.
Nick Williams realises his runner now faces a huge challenge.
Since barriers were introduced to the Cup in 1924, Rimfire in 1941, is the only other winner from 23.
But in a sign of just how dominant the 11 internationals in this year’s field are, eight of the first nine horses in betting are trained abroad.
Nick Williams, part‑owner of Yucatan, said the barrier is irrelevant.
The Melbourne Cup will begin next Tuesday at 5pm.
[Source: FOXSports]
MELBOURNE CUP BARRIER DRAW
Barrier 1: Auvray
Barrier 2: Vengeur Masque
Barrier 3: Nakeeta
Barrier 4: Chestnut Coat
Barrier 5: Red Cardinal
Barrier 6: Best Solution
Barrier 7: Ventura Storm
Barrier 8: Youngstar
Barrier 9: The Cliffsofmoher
Barrier 10: Marmelo
Barrier 11: Avilius
Barrier 12: Runaway
Barrier 13: Muntahaa
Barrier 14: Sir Charles Road
Barrier 15: Finche
Barrier 16: Sound Check
Barrier 17: Magic Circle
Barrier 18: Who Shot the Barman
Barrier 19: Cross Counter
Barrier 20: A Prince of Arran
Barrier 21: Rostropovich
Barrier 22: Ace High
Barrier 23: Yucatan
Barrier 24: Zacada
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