Ciaron Maher is eyeing the spring carnival with Circle Of Fire, who now heads Melbourne Cup odds after winning the Sydney Cup.

The import secured his second straight victory, following his earlier win in the Chairman’s Quality at Randwick.

Maher plans to give the son of Almanzor a break before his spring campaign, with Circle Of Fire listed at $11 for the Melbourne Cup by top betting apps.

Jockey Andrea Atzeni piloted the win, adding an emotional layer as he recently lost close friend Stefano Cherchi in a racing accident.

Maher praised Atzeni’s confident ride, highlighting the superior staying power of Circle Of Fire.

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