Linton now 31st in Melbourne Cup Order of Entry

New Zealand Bloodstock Ready to Run Sale graduate Linton has been allocated a one kilogram penalty for the Melbourne Cup after Saturday's win in the Group 2 Herbert Power Stakes (2400m).

With Racing Victoria Chief Handicapper Greg Carpenter issuing the penalty, Linton will now be asked to carry 52 kilograms in the Melbourne Cup, should he make the field. With Linton already passed the first ballot clause, he has moved from 56 to 31 in the Order of Entry.

Part owner Nick Williams has confirmed that the son of Galileo's next start will be the Group 3 Lexus Stakes (2500m) on October 30.

"You would probably want him to win the Lexus by two or three lengths to be taking him into the Melbourne Cup.

"He's coming along nicely and, providing nothing happens to him, I think you will see a better horse on Derby Day as he will be a bit more seasoned."

Williams said he would delay a final decision on a Melbourne Cup run until after the Lexus Stakes.

"If he wins the Lexus Stakes he will go to the Melbourne Cup, if he doesn't he will go to the Sandown Classic."

The Ready to Run Breeze Up programme has been finalised and is available now. For a copy of the programme, please click here. Breeze Ups will commence on 18 & 19 October at Te Rapa Racecourse, Hamilton starting at 9.00am.

The New Zealand Bloodstock Ready to Run Sale will be conducted at its Karaka sale centre in Auckland on 16 & 17 November.