Highland eyes Cox Plate fling

Highland Reel could be in line for another crack at star Australian mare Winx in the Cox Plate at Moonee Valley.

Aidan O’Brien’s King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes winner could only finish third behind Winx in Australia’s top weight for age contest 12 months ago but is one of 12 entries from the yard for this year’s race which takes place on October 22.

The Gurkha, Belmont Derby winner Deauville and Idaho, a full brother to Highland Reel, are others that could attempt to provide O’Brien with a second victory in the race following Adelaide’s victory in 2014.

There are 22 entries from overseas and they include a handful of runners from Godolphin whose home contingent is also well represented.

Hartnell, fifth to Winx last year, could be joined by John O’Shea-trained stablemates It’s Somewhat and Hauraki while Tryster could make the journey from Europe.

Trainer Darren Weir has enjoyed a sensational 2015-2016 season and has several engaged, including shock Melbourne Cup winner Prince of Penzance while Japan may be represented by Yasutoshi Ikee’s Tosen Stardom.

As for Winx, she will look to join the likes of So You Think, Fields of Omagh, Northerly and Sunline as a multiple winner of the extended 10 furlong contest. She is unbeaten in four starts since and has now won six Group One races with the latest coming in impressive fashion at Randwick in …

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