Green light for Japan mare in Cox

JAPANESE mare Lys Gracieux has overcome quarantine hurdles to be allowed to compete in the Cox Plate.

The five-year-old was under a cloud after racing in Hong Kong on April 28, meaning she would not satisfy the usual 180-day quarantine guidelines set by the Australian government.

But a detailed biosecurity assessment between Racing Victoria and the Department of Agriculture has led to Lys Gracieux being permitted to enter Australia to run in the Cox Plate on October 26.

If she wins, she will pick up a $2 million bonus, having saluted in the first event of the Cox Plate International Series.

Melbourne jockey Damian Lane, who rode Lys Gracieux to win the Group 1 Takarazuka Kinen (2200m) at Hanshin in June, said he was yet to receive word on whether he would get the ride.

“That discussion hasn’t been had yet,” Lane said.

“She’s a very talented mare, so it’ll be great for the race.

“She’s travelled well to Hong Kong and has travelled well in the past.”

Trained by Yoshito Yahagi, Lys Gracieux has firmed to TAB’s $9 third favourite for the Cox Plate.

Moonee Valley Racing Club chief executive Michael Browell lauded the mare’s “world-class standing” and said having her run would be “an amazing coup”.

“With Danceteria and Kluger also having accepted invitations and a host of Australian and New Zealand horses targeting the Cox Plate, including the current favourite in Mystic Journey, we are set up for a world-class field,” Browell said.