Daughter of 2013 Melbourne Cup winner Fiorente, Lunar Flare is the other horse guaranteed a spot in the race that stops a nation after her win in the Listed Lexus Andrew Ramsden Stakes (2800m) for trainer Grahame Begg.
Further opportunities for horses and connections to receive ballot exemption at Flemington include the Group 3 Lexus Bart Cummings (2500m) on TAB Turnbull Stakes Day and the Group 3 Lexus Archer Stakes (2500m) on Penfolds Victoria Derby Day. Outside of Flemington, the Group 1 Caulfield Cup (2400m) and Group 1 Cox Plate (2040m) offer ballot exemption.
VRC Executive General Manager Racing Leigh Jordon said he was thrilled with the nominations for this year’s Cup.
“We are extremely pleased with the list of nominations for this year’s Lexus Melbourne Cup,” Mr Jordon said.
“This year we celebrate 30 years since Vintage Crop began the wave of international horses competing in the Lexus Melbourne Cup and it is promising to see the quality of overseas contenders nominated.
“This is complemented by a quality list of locally trained stayers, testament to the enduring allure of the Lexus Melbourne Cup.
"The VRC look forward to welcoming thoroughbreds and their connections from across the globe for what is shaping up to be an exceptional race and Melbourne Cup Carnival.”