Dunaden added a new chapter to his rags to riches story in the G1 Caulfield Cup on Saturday.  The French stayer stamped his authority over the local product when he pounced on Alcopop to win the first leg of the cups’ double by a half length.

Dunaden (7h Nicobar – La Marlia by Kaldounevees) is undefeated in Australia after last year’s wins in the G3 Geelong Cup and G1 Melbourne Cup.  He overcame an outside draw and the fact no original top-weight had ever won the $2.50 million event.

“This is a remarkable horse,” stable representative Geoffrey Fabre said.  “He’s just thrived since he’s been at Werribee and that’s the difference.  I think he hates France and loves Australia!”

Racing Victoria handicapper Greg Carpenter will announce a Melbourne Cup penalty for Dunaden on Monday.  He won the 2011 Melbourne Cup with 54.5kg and was initially allocated 58kg this year.

Following last year’s triumph at Flemington, Dunaden won the G1 Hong Kong Vase and returned this term for placings in the G2 Jockey Club at Newmarket, G2 Grand Prix de Chantilly and G2 Hardwicke Stakes at Royal Ascot.

He has banked over $7.08 million for Sheikh Fahad al Thani of Qatar after selling for just 1,500 euros (AUD 2,525) as a foal at the 2006 Arqana December Sale.

Dunaden has spiralled a mile above his pedigree since winning a Strasbourg maiden in May 2009.  His sire Nicobar (Indian Ridge) is stationed south of Lyon at Ecuries de la Daudaies and has been represented by 5 winners from just 13 starters.

Dunaden’s dam La Marlia didn’t race and neither did second dam La Rotunda (Romildo).  His third dam Sugarberry (Comrade in Arms) and fourth dam Maple Sugar (Northern Treat) retired as maidens.

– Karl Patterson