When it comes to the big races in the UK and Ireland, trainer Aidan O’Brien knows more than most what’s needed to taste success.

His stable have dominated races domestically time and time again, whilst he has also had many winners in France, such is the array of talented jockeys and quality horses he has at his disposal.

As a result, he is one of the biggest names in the sport. However, victories haven’t been as easy to come by in Australia for O’Brien. It should be pointed out that those races may not have been high on his list of priorities in the past.

That could change in the coming weeks though, with the Irish trainer preparing to send several excellent horses Down Under as he searches for success in the country. And, if he could pick a race from the meetings to win it would undoubtedly be the renowned Melbourne Cup, which takes place in early November.

The 2 mile race is the number one thoroughbred horse race in the country because of the history and prestige that comes with it, with several legendary names winning in the past. As the first race was almost 160 years ago, it’s an important event on the Australian sporting calendar for fans and participants alike.

So, O’Brien would love to finish first in that race and one of his best chances of doing so will come through Anthony Van Dyck. The four-year-old is a name that many will recognise as he secured a memorable Derby win last year after emerging victorious from a thrillingly tight race at Epsom.

That was undoubtedly the biggest win in the career of the horse so far and a huge moment for all connected to the stable. Even though he wasn’t extremely impressive in the way he secured the finish, the fact he saw off such competition shows Anthony Van Dyck can compete with the best and secure important wins.

Therefore, the horse has pedigree and whilst he isn’t a hot favourite for the Melbourne Cup at 20/1, a quick glance at the Lottoland Sportsbook shows that there aren't too many ahead of him in the latest odds, meaning he is expected to have a decent chance.

Of course, there are several other quality horses in the race and some believe that Anthony Van Dyck will need to find another level if he is to come through what is probably his biggest challenge yet. But, there is a feeling that he has the talent and experience to compete on this stage.

With O’Brien making his intentions clear by sending six top horses, including Anthony Van Dyck, into quarantine before going to Australia, there is an expectation from the trainer ahead of the festival. And, as mentioned, the Melbourne Cup is sure to be the prime target.

Whether he can land the big win from the festival remains to be seen but if one horse is going to do the business for O'Brien then it could be Anthony Van Dyck.