Passionate Godolphin team deserve to celebrate historic Melbourne Cup success

The fact that everyone gets up at 4am to watch the Melbourne Cup shows what a great event it is and it was great to see a total domination by the Europeans. I was smiling when I saw the British horses were the first three home – it must have killed the Aussies.

I actually think Finche, the Australian-trained horse who finished fourth, ran the best race. He sat second all the way with a very strong gallop and kept on. But take nothing away from the winner Cross Counter, it was great for Charlie Appleby and what a nice guy and great trainer he is. He is a credit to himself and the Godolphin team, who have really turned it around.

I don't know what has caused Godolphin to have such a great season, there has been a big change. Only a few years ago they thought it was a great result when they had winners on All-Weather finals day but they have revamped and it's great for racing, especially with their rivalry with Ballydoyle. We need competition to fuel the sport.