Star Hong Kong hoop Joao Moreira has been booked to ride The United States in next Tuesday’s Melbourne Cup.
Owner Lloyd Williams announced the booking on Tuesday, also confirming that The United States won’t run in Saturday’s Lexus Stakes and instead take his chances on making the final cup field.
The United States moved to number 26 on the Melbourne Cup order of entry after receiving a 2.5kg penalty for his win in last Saturday’s Moonee Valley Gold Cup.
Williams is confident The United States will secure a place in the 24-horse field even though the winners of the both the Lexus Stakes and the Mackinnon Stakes gain a start if among the cup second acceptances.
Hugh Bowman rode The United States in his win at Moonee Valley but he is committed to Preferment for Chris Waller in the cup.
The United States is a $35 chance for the Melbourne Cup with TAB all-in betting.