Trainer Ciaron Maher is tipped to claim the coveted 2024 Sydney Cup trophy this Saturday with his in-form stayer Circle of Fire.

Circle Of Fire on the quick back-up heads 2024 Sydney Cup betting this weekend at Randwick. Photo: Steve Hart.

The import is poised for a quick back-up into the prestigious two-mile race.

The Group 1 $2 million Schweppes Sydney Cup (3200m) is one of four elite features on Day 2 of The Championships at Royal Randwick.

This year’s edition boasts a competitive field of seventeen horses, with Circle of Fire leading the charge at $4.80 through Ladbrokes.

While facing a wide barrier draw (number fifteen), Circle of Fire has the stamina and tactical nous to overcome it.

He comes into the race on a seven-day turnaround after a dominant victory in the Group 2 Chairman’s Quality (2600m) on a wet track last weekend.

This marked his first Australian victory, and he now sets his sights on achieving the Chairman’s Quality – Sydney Cup double, a feat last accomplished by The Offer in 2014.

Circle of Fire carries a slightly lighter weight (51.5kg) compared to last week’s race.

This weight adjustment, coupled with his current fitness, makes him a favourite for many punters.

Maher boasts another contender in the race: Ashrun, currently the second elect at $5.50.

Drawn in barrier twelve with Craig Williams in the saddle, Ashrun has been performing well throughout the autumn.

Following a string of impressive runs, he captured the Pakenham Cup two back with a hefty 58kg before a strong showing in the Group 1 Tancred Stakes (2400m) at Rosehill, finishing third to Kalapour.

With a slight distance increase and a reduced weight (55.5kg), Ashrun has the potential to push for victory.

The reigning Tancred Stakes winner, Kalapour, also returns for the Sydney Cup, carrying between 54kg and 52.5kg with apprentice jockey Dylan Gibbons aboard.

This seven-year-old boasts a history of success at Randwick and has already secured a Group 1 victory this year at an unexpected price.

At $8.50, he offers intriguing value for a potential Tancred Stakes – Sydney Cup double.

John O’Shea‘s Athabascan, who finished a close fourth in the Tancred Stakes, is another contender to watch at $9.50.

Other notable entries include Chris Waller‘s Manzoice ($18), Phillip Stokes‘ evergreen ten-year-old Amade ($14), and the in-form Serpentine ($11) from the Waterhouse/Bott stable.

The 2024 Sydney Cup is set to run as Race 7 at Randwick on Saturday (3:15 PM AEST).

2024 Sydney Cup Field

Table Credit: Racing Australia.

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