South Australian stayer The Map kicks off her Melbourne Cup campaign on Saturday in the Listed Leon Macdonald Stakes (1400m) at Morphettville. Trainer Oopy MacGillivray is optimistic about the six-year-old mare’s first run since her victory in the Listed Andrew Ramsden (2800m) at Flemington in May, which secured her a golden ticket into this year’s Melbourne Cup.

The Map faces a competitive field, including Group 1 winner Attrition and the talented mare See You In Heaven. MacGillivray was pleased with The Map’s final track gallop on Tuesday, noting that the mare has improved since her last campaign. “We were absolutely delighted with her,” MacGillivray said, expressing confidence in The Map’s readiness for Saturday’s race.

The Map is expected to settle toward the back of the field but finish strongly under apprentice jockey Maggie Collett, who has been heavily involved in the mare’s preparation. Following the Leon Macdonald Stakes, The Map will head to Melbourne for the Naturalism Stakes, Herbert Power Stakes, and possibly the Geelong Cup as her final lead-up to the Melbourne Cup.

MacGillivray’s confidence in The Map’s condition and progression sets the stage for an exciting spring campaign, with Saturday’s race marking the first step on her road to Flemington.

The Map is a $21 chance in betting with Australian bookmakers in Melbourne Cup 2024 odds.

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