<p><strong>Valiant King</strong> with Jye&nbsp;McNeil aboard has emerged as a serious Melbourne Cup contender at <strong>$8.50</strong>, backed by strong market support heading into the <strong>3200m</strong> showpiece at <strong>Flemington</strong>.</p> <p>Trained by <strong>Chris Waller</strong>, this gelding brings a solid career record of <strong>19: 2-3-3</strong> into Australia's most famous race.</p> <p>The grey's recent form suggests he's hitting peak condition at the perfect time.</p> <p>Two starts back, he delivered a commanding performance over 2520 metres at Flemington, powering to the line in impressive fashion.</p> <p>His subsequent Caulfield Cup run, where he stormed home into the top four despite encountering significant traffic problems, demonstrates the untapped potential that could be unleashed on Tuesday.</p> <p>Both <strong>McNeil</strong> and <strong>Waller</strong> are chasing their second Melbourne Cup victories, adding extra motivation to an already compelling combination.</p> <p>The horse's return as a gelding has sparked noticeable improvement, and with a favourable weight drop for the Cup, he's positioned for a strong showing.</p> <p>Weather conditions could play into <strong>Valiant King's</strong> hands, with grey horses traditionally handling wet tracks well.</p> <p>If the heavens open at Flemington, this could be the edge that separates him from the field.</p> <p><a href="https://www.sportsbet.com.au/horse-racing/australia-nz/flemington/race-7-9797762">Markets available here</a></p> <p>Odds subject to change.</p>