(Image: Private Media/Tom Red)

The nation didn’t quite stop this week when National Australia Bank chief executive Ross McEwan suggested Melbourne Cup Day become “Freedom Day for Victorians”. But it did give us pause for thought.

Should we, as captains of industry urge, throw off our horse blankets, smash down the stable door, and thunder along the straight, holding credit cards aloft? Or should we, as others suggest, continue our spell in the top paddock until the track is completely safe?

The answers, as ever, can be found in the form guide.

Variant Delta: A virtually unstoppable newcomer who’s come from nowhere to take the world by storm. Difficult to contain at any distance, she’ll be backed off the map.

Easy AZ: Highly favoured in the early markets but dumped following weight-for-age complications. Recent form has been reasonable, although punters remain sceptical.

Super Pfizer: Widely tipped as the best chance to beat a hyper-charged Delta variant. Trackside mail suggests owners and connections may have nobbled his run by failing to get him into the country sooner.

Not a Race: Sired by the notorious Front of the Queue, it’s no surprise this nag runs so hot and cold. A big splash in the parade ring, but soon gets in a lather and flunks on the track. Longshot at best but has been known to surprise.

Dictator Dan: Has a patchy record at this distance, but this fractious Victorian bolter is adored by locals. Recently returned after a serious back injury. It remains to be seen if he stays the distance.

Gold Standard Gladys: A once-fancied stayer from NSW now carrying too much weight to convince at this level.

Annastacia Palace Shade: A seasoned filly who continues to outshine more favoured competitors. Whether this golden run is due to good management or good luck is a matter for debate. 

Western Caveman: Like Dictator Dan, this headstrong stayer is adored by local fans. Detached and self-contained, Caveman spooks easily and has been known to stop dead in the middle of a race with little warning. 

Freedumb Chimes: This mutinous mudlark is all over the record books, but mainly for failed protests and stewards’ inquiries. Lacks discipline and aptitude and is prone to paranoid equine delusion. Hard to like at this level, or any other.

Let it Rip: With impeccable connections from the better pavilions, there’s plenty of clout behind this purebred charger. Races with an imperious disregard for anything else on the track. Expect the whip.