Revelare punched his ticket to the first Tuesday in November with a determined victory in the Group 3 Archer Stakes (2500m), sealing a coveted ballot exemption for the Group 1 Melbourne Cup (3200m).
Sent out a firm $2.90 favourite with horse racing bookmakers, the Robert Hickmott-trained stayer outstayed Mormona, with Sayedaty Sadaty holding third.
Declan Bates produced a cool, patient ride, keeping Revelare within range before asking for his effort at the top of the long Flemington straight.
The gelding dug in late to edge clear by a long neck, confirming his staying credentials and delivering Hickmott a live Cup contender as the stable chases a third win in the race.
For Hickmott—who lifted the Cup with Green Moon (2012) and Almandin (2016)—this was the plan coming together after a minor illness scuttled an autumn “win-and-you’re-in” attempt.
He’d earmarked The Bart Cummings (2500m) on October 4 as the spring gateway, but after a sharp Caulfield win at 2000m on August 30 and Saturday’s step to 2500m, the Archer proved the right door to walk through.
With Cup weights due this Tuesday, Hickmott flagged a measured path into the first Tuesday, mindful of penalties if Revelare were to win again on the way through.
The Bart Cummings remains a likely next stop, with the team confident there’s further improvement to come as the horse’s coat and fitness peak into spring.
Revelare is now a $17 chance with horse betting sites for the 2025 Melbourne Cup on November 4.
2025 Group 3 Archer Stakes Replay – Revelare
Horse racing news
