The Moonee Valley Racing Club has dangled a big carrot to lure the winner of the Juddmonte International to the Cox Plate.
Besides the Cox Plate first prize of $3 million, a bonus of $2 million is on the table if the Juddmonte International victor takes out the Cox Plate at The Valley on October 26.
The Group One Juddmonte International is run at York on Wednesday.
In addition the MVRC also offers return flights, accommodation and all expenses incurred in travelling to Melbourne for the Cox Plate while also waiving nomination, acceptance and declaration fees.
The MVRC has this year launched the Cox Plate International Series with Lys Gracieux, winner of Japan’s Takarazuka Kinen on June 23, also eligible for the bonus.
MVRC chairman Don Casboult said the Cox Plate International Series compliments its International Invitations strategy where the Club invites the best performed horses for the Cox Plate.
“By connecting the Cox Plate with selected prestigious Group One races around the world, we hope to continue to raise the profile of our great race and secure the best horses from around the world to race at The Valley,” Casboult said.
Last year Godolphin galloper Benbatl finished second to Winx in the Cox Plate after he was fifth behind Roaring Lion in the Juddmonte International.