Makybe Diva confirmed starter for Melbourne Cup

MELBOURNE - Trainer Lee Freedman has confirmed Melbourne Cup favourite Makybe Diva will take her place in today's race.

Freedman sent former top jockey Damien Oliver to Flemington this morning to inspect the track and has received a positive report back.

Oliver said that after walking the track he had told Freedman the champion mare should not be disadvantaged by the conditions.

"The track seems pretty good to me and I can't see any reason why she shouldn't run," Oliver said.

Freedman and Makybe Diva's owner Tony Santic had declared that the horse wouldn't run if the Flemington track was too firm.

But overnight watering and a cool morning seem likely to ensure a suitable track.

It is expected the other doubtful runner, Ireland's Vinnie Roe, will also run after his trainer Dermot Weld inspected the track yesterday and also passed it as suitable for his horse which today is having its last race.

- AAP