The Adelaide Cup was first run in 1864 when won by the appropriately named Falcon. Since then, quite few chaff bandits have won the race, with winners over the last decade representing a who's not of the Australian turf - my favourite old horse Gallic (2007) aside. Notwithstanding that, it is a race that still carries some prestige and a great trophy for the winner.
The first name you think of when it comes to Adelaide Cups is Lord Reims, who won the race three years in a row between 1987 and 1989, as well as the 1987 Caulfield Cup, in which defeated the highly fancied three year old Beau Zam. Melbourne Cup winners to have won the race include Subzero (1992), Just A Dash (1981), Hyperno (1978) and Rain Lover (1968). The great Reckless won in 1977, but he was brought undone by torrental rain on the first Tuesday in November and could only manage second to Van Der Hum.
As far as tomorrow goes, the track is presently rated a Dead 5, but importantly, more rain is scheduled so a downgrade is possible. The track condition will be of critical importance.
