Coast's Cup dreams drenched but hopes still high

Coolum Beach couple left to rue what could've been, but say leading trainer can see Group One success in the future.

EXCITED: Dave and Richelle Wright of Coolum Beach with superstar horse trainer Gai Waterhouse, watching their Melbourne Cup hope Runaway in the main race. Picture: Contributed

COOLUM Beach couple Dave and Richelle Wright were left to rue what could have been had conditions been more favourable, after their Melbourne Cup hopes faded.

The part owners of Runaway had every reason to be excited after their 4yo Geelong Cup-winning hope led for a large portion of the race on what was a drenched Flemington racetrack.

But two miles proved to be too much to ask on the day and their runner finished in 19th position, as Cross Counter, Marmelo and A Prince of Arran made up the top three.

The Wrights weren't letting the result, or the weather, dampen their moods though as they soaked up the atmosphere trackside at the nation's largest race day.

They described the atmosphere as "fever pitch”, as they hung out with excited connections and managed a happy snap with their trusted trainer Gai Waterhouse.

"We had to go out hard and set the pace,” Mr Wright said.

PUMPED: Dave and Richelle Wright with excited connections watching the main race at Flemington. Picture: Contributed

"The track didn't suit that type of racing unfortunately.

"Stevie (jockey Stephen Baster) gave it all he could and felt him ease up 400m out.

"He's only young and probably best suited to 2500m-2800m... not to say we can't get him up to 3200m.”

Mr Wright said they were already eyeing off major meets next year.

"We will probably look to the Caulfield Cup next year as that distance suits,” he said.

"It's still an amazing experience and Gai is more than confident Runaway has a lot more Group One wins in him.

"He pulled up fine too.”