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Murtagh: No Melbourne prep run for Mutual Regard

Mutual Regard is one of two Johnny Murtagh-trained horses competing in the Melbourne Cup
Mutual Regard is one of two Johnny Murtagh-trained horses competing in the Melbourne Cup

Johnny Murtagh has confirmed that Mutual Regard will compete in the Emirates Melbourne Cup without the aid of a prep run.

Trainer Murtagh is happy to send this season's Ebor winner into battle at Flemington on 4 November as a fresh horse.

The Andrew Tinkler-trained five-year-old enjoyed a beneficial workout at Werribee racecourse on Monday morning under the supervision of his trainer.

Murtagh said: "He's settled in very well. He's a pretty straightforward horse.

"He travelled over good. He lost a few kilos but he's putting that back on now.

"He's going well. He seems to be nice and fresh. I think he'll go straight for the race. He goes well fresh.

"I just hope I have him in the same shape as when he turned up at York."

Murtagh is likely to be doubly represented in the Melbourne Cup with the Tinkler-owned Royal Diamond, who arrives in Australia from quarantine on Saturday.

The Kildare handler told www.racing.com: "The girl who is looking after him in quarantine is very happy. He's moving great. If he turns up with his A-game he'd have a definite shout.

"He's a seasoned traveller. I don't think there'll be any problems with him. It's very exciting to have two horses in the Melbourne Cup."

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