MY CALL: WHO SHOT THEBARMAN TO CLAIM THE CUP

By David Fowler | Monday, November 2, 2015

David Fowler is the principal thoroughbred caller for Radio TAB. David, who is a keen form student and punter, has enjoyed a lifetime involvement in the racing media. His personal blog, ‘My Call’, appears exclusively on HRO.

Who Shot TheBarman mightn't carry the hype but he'll carry my cash in this year’s Emirates Melbourne Cup.

Granted, he wasn't good enough to win the race last year but he was good enough to beat home 21 rivals by running third to Protectionist who was airborn that day.

So the question begs is he faster or slower than 12 months ago and is this year's opposition stronger or weaker?

My observations tell me it's a typical Melbourne Cup.

There's the typical spruik and chatter about those who come here and try and win it without having an Australian start. Good luck!

There's those who arrive here and have had a run to ready them for the two miler. That's the dangerous group, worth studying closely.

And then there's the Aussie-owned contingent whose form is clearly understood by punters.

I've got Who Shot Thebarman at the top of that pile.

Since his brave Melbourne Cup third he was competitive in the Autumn, beaten a breath in the Sydney Cup before put away for the Spring.

I am adamant the Caulfield Cup offers the strongest formline this year with a view to the two miler.

Who Shot Thebarman was every bit as good as Fame Game at Caulfield, coming wider and delivering similar sectionals. An excellent Melbourne Cup trial.

And now he steps out tomorrow, drawn to get a comfortable trip from barrier six with former Cup winning jockey Blake Shinn knowing what it takes to win this race.

He might run into a "freak" on the day but I doubt it. At $19, I think he is a great investment on both totes.

Fame Game and Trip To Paris arrived with excellent credentials and their Caulfield Cup performances clearly underlined they aren't here for the Spring weather.

Both are "musts" for your multiple betting such as quinellas, exactas, trifectas and first fours.

I'm not selling Criterion short either as a top four prospect.

He will travel on pace and enjoy an easy trip. Running the two miles is a genuine query but I'm sure he will make his presence felt for a long way.

Enjoy your day.

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