Almandin’s all the rage but don’t forget Max
THE Williams family has the numbers with six Melbourne Cup runners, armed with the ruling favourite and quality international contenders.
But even with defending champion Almandin, Johannes Vermeer and Rekindling in their corner, the Cup’s most successful ownership group is wary of a horse that has raced only four times in two years.
“We’re really happy with all six of runners,” Nick Williams said. “But I’ve been watching Max Dynamite and if I’m having any multiples, I’ll be putting him in.
“He’s flying. He’s going to be hard to beat at the weights.”
Max Dynamite has rarely been seen since his controversial Cup second to Prince Of Penzance two years ago.
Injury has curtailed the veteran’s career, restricting him to just a handful of runs, including one over jumps.
But he retains a lethal sprint, as displayed at Werribee and during a last-start win with 73kg at Killarney in Ireland.
Williams’s father Lloyd is the most successful owner in Cup history with five wins – Just A Dash, What A Nuisance, Efficient, Green Moon and Almandin.
Apart from favourite Almandin, Rekindling and Johannes Vermeer, Macedon Lodge will also be represented by US Army Ranger, Gallante and Bondi Beach. Williams says Johannes Vermeer has “done nothing wrong since he’s been in the country.”