The 2008 Spring Racing Carnival moves on to the Moonee valley Racing Club this weekend as some of Australia’s finest weight-for-age runners line up to contest the prestigious group one Cox Plate.

The run-up to the race has produced two firm ante-post favourites sharing 11/4 odds at William Hill – Samantha Miss and Princess Coup.

Star jockey, Glen Boss, has shed the weight needed to partner Samantha Miss in the race, and is looking forward to the prospect of competing in one of the biggest races of the year.

“There won’t be a fitter, sharper jockey walk on to the track on Saturday,” said Boss, who has spent the last several weeks training with former Commonwealth featherweight champion Julian Holland.

“I’m flying. I’m about 47.5kg now and I feel terrific. I have done it the right way and I am ready. I can’t wait.”

Joint-favourite Princess Coup, a New Zealand entry, arrived in Melbourne yesterday in preparation for the Cox Plate, and trainer Mark Walker believes she has what is takes to walk away with the Cox Plate title.

“She was very consistent all season and this year she appears to be gathering even a little better than last season,” Walker said in The Australian.