Birdman storms to second Group 1 win, shortens into Cox Plate reckoning

Birdman won the Underwood Stakes at Caulfield by 1.75 lengths and is now second favourite for the Cox Plate on October 24.

Birdman claimed his second Group 1 victory on Saturday, winning the 1800-metre Underwood Stakes at Caulfield in commanding fashion. Ridden by Ben Melham and trained by Chris Waller, the horse circled the field to beat favourite Cosmic Crusader by 1.75 lengths, with outsider Attrition third.

The win shortened Birdman to second favourite for the Cox Plate at Flemington on October 24. Birdman is the gelding's second top-level success after winning the Doomben Cup in May.

Waller has a strong record in the Cox Plate, winning six of the last 11 runnings. Beadman said Birdman is a better 2000-metre horse and has the acceleration to succeed at Flemington.

1.75 lengths: Winning margin
October 24: Cox Plate date
6 of 11: Waller's Cox Plate wins

Why it mattersBirdman is shaping as a genuine contender for one of Australia's most prestigious spring racing events.

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