McDonald Aims for Historic Fourth Straight Cox Plate Victory

New Zealand’s renowned jockey James McDonald is set to compete in the prestigious A$6 million Cox Plate today at The Valley in Melbourne. With the first race scheduled for October 28, 2023, at 14:10 (NZ time), McDonald is focused on trusting both his horse, Via Sistina, and her trainer as he navigates the challenges of defending his title.

McDonald is aiming to become only the second jockey in history to win four consecutive Cox Plates. The only other jockey to achieve this remarkable feat is his close friend Hugh Bowman, who rode the legendary champion Winx to four straight victories. Bowman returns to the track today, partnering with Aeliana.

In preparation for the race, McDonald expressed confidence in his partnership with Via Sistina, emphasizing the importance of trust in both the horse and her training team. He remarked, “I just have to trust my horse and her trainer,” reflecting a mindset crucial for success in such a high-stakes environment.

As the clock ticks down to race time, fans and experts alike are eager to see if McDonald can secure his place in racing history. The pressure mounts as he prepares to ride in a race known for its unpredictability and fierce competition.

The Cox Plate, often regarded as one of Australia’s premier horse racing events, brings together top competitors from across the globe. With a rich history and substantial prize money, it attracts significant attention from both local and international audiences.

In addition to the Cox Plate, other major races are taking place today, including the War Decree Stakes at Riccarton, set to commence at 11:37 (NZ time), and the Spring Champion Stakes at Randwick, beginning at 14:25 (NZ time).

As McDonald mounts Via Sistina, the world will be watching closely, eager to see if he can achieve a historic fourth consecutive win.