Newcastle Trainer Kris Lees Eyes Melbourne Cup with Trio of Entries

Newcastle trainer Kris Lees has his sights set on the Melbourne Cup with three horses, Kalapour, Adelaide River, and Cleveland, currently ranked among the top 24 in the official order of entry. However, their participation in the prestigious race will ultimately depend on their performance in their lead-up events. Lees has expressed concerns about Cleveland's recent form, having finished last on three consecutive occasions, while Kalapour's wide barrier draw in The Metropolitan at Randwick this weekend may see him bypass the event altogether.

Key Takeaways:

Kris Lees has three horses, Kalapour, Adelaide River, and Cleveland, ranked in the top 24 of the Melbourne Cup order of entry.
Kalapour's lead-up form will determine whether he takes his place in the Melbourne Cup, with Lees suggesting he may bypass The Metropolitan at Randwick.
Cleveland will still run at Randwick this weekend, despite finishing last on three consecutive occasions.
Lees is considering targeting either the Caulfield Stakes (2000m) or Herbert Power Stakes (2400m) on October 12 with Kalapour.
Adelaide River has been at Lees' stables for six months, landing there after his previous stint at a different stable.
Kalapour has a proven track record at 2400m, but is questionable at 2000m.
Cleveland, a Group 2 Moonee Valley Cup winner, has not performed well in recent events, finishing last three times.

Statistics:

Kalapour is currently ranked 7th in the Melbourne Cup order of entry.
Adelaide River is ranked 18th, while Cleveland is ranked 22nd.
Kalapour has 72 hours to prepare for his potential Melbourne Cup start.
Cleveland has finished last on three consecutive occasions.
The NJC metropolitan event will be held on October 9.

Sources:

"Gary Harley also previews Saturday's race meeting at Newcastle." (No date provided)
Byline: Josh Callinan NEWCASTLE trainer Kris Lees has three runners... (No date provided)
The Newcastle Herald (No date or publication date provided)