Mount Athos (right): heads Melbourne Cup betting at 8-1 with BetVictor

PICTURE: Edward Whitaker (racingpost.com/photos), BY JAMES PUGH11:24AM 18 SEP 2012

MELBOURNE CUP favourite Mount Athos has been trimmed to 8-1 (from 10) with BetVictor after the weights for the prestigious Group 1 handicap were revealed on Tuesday.

The Luca Cumani-trained five-year-old, who is set to carry 54 kilograms (8st7lb) in the Flemington showpiece on November 6, is now 10-1 favourite (from 12) with Paddy Power.

But William Hill and BetVictor quickly went 8-1 (from 10) after it was revealed that he will be in receipt of 9lb from recent Melbourne Cup winners Americain and Dunaden, who head the weights at 58kg (9st2lb). Quest For Peace and Ibicenco, who are also trained by Cumani, are available at 25-1 and 33-1.

BetVictor spokesman Charlie McCann said: “There is a very strong European challenge with Godolphin’s challenge, seemingly, headed by Ascot Gold Cup winner Colour Vision (8st9lb). Both Cavalryman (8st7lb) and Ebor winner Willing Foe (8st4lb) would have their supporters, although the latter may struggle to make the cut.

“Americain and Dunaden head the weights and only two horses have carried 58kg or more in the last 40 years – they look to face difficult tasks as they bid to follow up.”

Last year’s gallant second Red Cadeaux, who has been handed 55.5kg (8st10lb) in this year’s contest, was trimmed to 16-1 (from 20) by Coral.

The same firm also cut Galileo’s Choice, trained by dual Melbourne Cup winner Dermot Weld, to 20-1 (from 25).