DIRECT Hong Kong interest in Tuesday's Melbourne Cup heightened yesterday when Australian jockey Glen Boss revealed that he would be taking a flight home tonight to partner leading hope Champagne.
Earlier yesterday, Champagne won the LKS MacKinnon Stakes, traditionally one of the big Melbourne Cup lead-up races. Within a hour, New Zealand trainer Laurie Laxon had sent a fax to the Jockey Club seeking the services of Boss.
The Queenslander is currently on a three-month contract in Hong Kong as a Club Jockey but snapped up the offer immediately.
He said: 'Champagne is a really live chance in the race and I am delighted to get the chance to ride her. I couldn't live with myself if I turned it down and she went on and won or ran a really great race.
'I don't think it is a particularly strong Melbourne Cup this year as there are a number of them suspect at the distance. That includes the favourite, Faithful Son.
'Of course, Champagne has got no form at the trip either but I am assured that they don't think that is a problem.
'I have ridden in the Cup before but never really anything with a top chance so this is a bit special,' added Boss, who has ridden for Laxon in the past.