Horse Racing
3 November, 2025
Preusker chases Cup glory with Wimmera hope Torranzino
This year’s Melbourne Cup has distinct local flavours with a Horsham trainer contesting for the biggest prize in racing.
The Wimmera will come to a standstill today at 3pm as the Paul Preusker-trained Torranzino will bolt out of barrier 18.
The six-year-old gelding won the Geelong Cup on October 23 to earn a place in the race that stops the nation.
“It’s so exciting to get another go, that’s what it’s all about for me and the team”, Preusker told racing.com.
“Now we’re into the Melbourne Cup, and everyone knows that if you get a chance, then you’re a chance.”
Sired by the stallion Tarzino out of the dam Goldilicious, Torranzino has only won six races in its short career.
However, none are bigger than defeating Ciaron Maher-trained Gilded Water, owned by King Charles III.
Jockey Celine Gaudray, who rode Torranzino in Geelong will ride again, becoming just the 11th woman to ride in the Cup’s 164-year history.
It will be Preusker’s third attempt at winning the Melbourne Cup, following famous runs by Surprise Baby in 2019 and 2020.
With rain forecast overnight, experts are predicting a Soft 7 or Heavy 8 track rating, which could play into the gelding’s strengths.
Meanwhile, Warracknabeal Racing Club committee members Meg Huebner and Grace Morrow will be quietly cheering on US galloper Parchment Party ($51) to cross the line first, all in the name of charity.
The Club nominated Woodbine as its chosen charity to benefit from the nationwide Cup initiative, which donates $50,000 to charity.
The Sheep Hills Cup drew barrier three.
All 10 races at Flemington will be broadcast on Channel Nine.