In a stunning Melbourne Cup upset, local outsider Knight’s Choice triumphed at 100/1 odds, beating a field of highly-rated international horses to win the 164th edition of Australia’s iconic race.
In a thrilling photo finish, Knight’s Choice edged the Japanese runner Warp Speed, with Okita Soushi finishing third in a dramatic finale that saw contenders spread across the track. The victory was a shock, with Knight’s Choice paying as much as $101 on fixed odds before the race, making it the longest-priced winner since Prince of Penzance in 2015.
Co-trainer Sheila Laxon celebrated her second Melbourne Cup win, 23 years after training Ethereal to victory in 2001. The win was also a career-defining moment for Irish-born, Queensland-based jockey Robbie Dolan, who had previously gained fame as a contestant on The Voice.
Dolan, who guided Knight’s Choice from a back position to the front, was overwhelmed by the result. “I’ll be singing for the rest of my life after that,” he said.
Laxon praised Dolan’s ride, noting the jockey knew exactly what to do without instructions. “This is the people’s Cup, and that’s what it’s all about,” she added.
Knight’s Choice delivered one of the biggest surprises in Melbourne Cup history.
2024 MELBOURNE CUP DIVIDENDS (SuperTAB tote prices)
1st 11. Knight’s Choice $63.50 win $17.80 place
2nd 4. Warp Speed $9.30
3rd 12. Okita Soutshi $4.80
4th 14. Zardozi
