Given that betting started on the Caulfield Cup months ago, much of the bookmakers' liabilities are factored into the markets.
One suspects a horse like WEEKEND HUSSLER, on the basis of his last run, would be at a much more enticing price in the Cup had it not been for the extensive burden in their books.
Having said that, WEEKEND HUSSLER has been sensationally backed since the draw from $6.50 to $4.20 in certain quarters, on the issues of both value and the perceived lack of speed which might not make the 2400m as big a concern as many had first thought.
RED RULER ($17) and BOUNDLESS ($16) have firmed a little early due to the fact they should save a deal of ground drawn inside. With Kibbutz out, Lindsay Park's best chance from the draw might now be ZAGREB and he's garnering support into as short at $15 with some agencies.
On the contrary, MALDIVIAN ($19), NOM DU JEU ($26) and GUILLOTINE ($11) have all eased to those marks as they drew outside gates.
In other black type races on the day, most interest has been in the David Jones Cup. TAB Sportsbet customers have strongly supported MUSKET in from an opening $4.40 quote to $3.80 as soon as markets opened.
That was because of $4000 and $2000 bets at the opening figure. From the same race, Caulfield Cup emergency RED LORD attracted a $5000 bet @ $7 while Gai Waterhouse's fan club backed KINGDA KA with $4000 @ $9.
EMPEROR BONAPARTE ($6.50 to $4.50) has seen substantial interest in the Norman Robinson and MIMI LEBROCK is considered well weighted in the Harrolds Stks shortening into $6.50. In Race 3 CAYMANS received a $3000 wager @ $6.50 bringing him into $5 while Mark Kavanagh's DR DOUTE'S is $8 to $6.50.
At Randwick it is Tatts day and there has been some specking at big odds for two horses in the Brian Crowley Stks. Both MIRABEAU & DE LIGHTNING RIDGE are $26 into $18 with TAB Sportsbet. Also THE CHIEFTAIN is $13 to $10 in the Tatts Cup.
* Prices are correct at time of publishing and are subject to change
