There's been plenty of drama surrounding the Kiwi contenders for this year's Melbourne Cup.
James McDonald will not get the chance to defend his title - after his horse was scratched in the buildup.
Two other expat Kiwi jockeys will carry New Zealand's hopes in the race that stops two nations on Tuesday.
All the fanfare of Flemington was proudly paraded through Melbourne on Monday.
Among the favourites to claim the Cup - Montefilia. Its fans weren't hard to find, but its rider was.
"I've just landed," jockey Jason Collet told Newshub. "[I] flew down this afternoon, and we're here now."
Collett rode the five-year-old mare to Group 1 success in March. But to win the Melbourne Cup would be even bigger.
Not just for him, the Collett family have a proud history in New Zealand racing.
"It would be huge if we could get that one," he continued.
"They wished me good luck. They were pretty quiet about it. But I'd say they're a bit nervous watching it."
A win would make New Zealand history, with back-to-back Kiwi champions after Verry Elleegant took out the Melbourne Cup in 2021.
But it won't be back-to-back wins for James McDonald. His dream was shattered during an equine safety scan that saw his ride 'Loft' ruled out of the race.
It left New Zealand fans with just one other chance. But Lunar Flare is now in doubt too.
"Minor lameness this morning, which is unfortunate news," said jockey Michael Dee. "Hopefully it's all OK and 100 percent in the morning."
If vets approve her to run, it could continue a remarkable run for Dee.
With wins in the Caulfield Cup and the Victoria Derby, it's been a spring to remember.
"He's been with her for most of her career since I've had her," said trainer Graham Begg. "He's just gone to another level, and he's the red-hot jockey at the moment."
Fan favourites today, fierce rivals at Flemington come Tuesday.
Join Newshub for live updates of the Melbourne Cup on Tuesday
