With 2019 Melbourne, Caulfield Cup nominations close, Racing Victoria unveils potential runners

Untapped Japanese stayer Mer De Glace is slated to contest the $5.15m Caulfield Cup at the urging of star jockey Damian Lane.

Untapped Japanese stayer Mer De Glace will target the $5.15m Caulfield Cup (2400m) at the urging of Australian star jockey Damian Lane.

Lane persuaded the precocious colt’s connections to bring the four year-old to Melbourne and nominate for the Caulfield Cup on October 19.

Victorian-based West Australian jetsetting jockey Lane rode Mer De Glace to victory twice during a celebrated stint in Japan.

Mer De Glace is a $26 chance with TAB to win the Caulfield Cup pre-nominations.

Racing Victoria will on Thursday unveil the nominations for both the Melbourne and Caulfield Cups.

Last year’s Melbourne Cup trifecta, including winner Cross Counter and runner-up Marmelo, make up nominations for the $8 million race that stops a nation.

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Damian Lane talks to trainer Ciaron Maher after riding Humidor in a barrier trial this month.

Godolphin trainer Saeed bin Suroor has nominated Ebor Handicap runner-up Red Galileo for the 3200m Flemington feature.

Australian Bloodstock, who won the Melbourne Cup in 2014 with Protectionist, boasts strong spring claims with Ebor winner Mustajeer set to join Kris Lees’ stable next month.

Freedman Racing will have at least one runner in the Melbourne Cup, after imported stayer Steel Prince earned ballot exemption winning The Andrew Ramsden (2800m).

Six-time Melbourne Cup winner Lloyd Williams and son Nick will confirm their entries today, as will Lindsay Park legendary trainer David Hayes, son Ben and training partner Tom Dabernig.

Nominations for the Cups close on Thursday at midday.