WITH wins in the Caulfield Cup and Cox Plate, Bart Cummings has already left an indelible mark on this year's spring carnival, and the renowned trainer will have a big impact on the Melbourne Cup even if his three runners fail to provide him with the perfect trifecta, reports the Sunday Age.It says: Bookmakers are predicting that the ''Bart Factor'' could see betting on the race reach a record high, as once-a-year punters rush to follow the Cups King in the race he has won 12 times.''Given the i

WITH wins in the Caulfield Cup and Cox Plate, Bart Cummings has already left an indelible mark on this year's spring carnival, and the renowned trainer will have a big impact on the Melbourne Cup even if his three runners fail to provide him with the perfect trifecta, reports the Sunday Age.

It says: Bookmakers are predicting that the ''Bart Factor'' could see betting on the race reach a record high, as once-a-year punters rush to follow the Cups King in the race he has won 12 times.

''Given the incredible run of form that Bart's been in over the past month, I think we will definitely see a lot of money across the board for all his runners, and it could help us towards a record in terms of turnover,'' said TAB Sportsbet's Glenn Munsie.

The 81-year-old will be represented by last year's winner and current Caulfield Cup champion Viewed, $8 chance Roman Emperor and $34 shot Allez Wonder.

Victoria's TAB tote took a record $37.1 million on the race last year, and Mr Munsie believes betting could break the $40 million mark for the first time this Tuesday. ''We would need a near 10 per cent increase to break the $40 million mark, and that's a big leap in turnover, but I think it's possible ...''

Racing Victoria chief executive Rob Hines agrees, saying: ''Every few years we get a fantastic story, whether it's Makybe Diva or a people's horse. This year is all about Bart.

''The interest he generates will obviously increase the betting turnover, but aside from that, it will bring a great atmosphere to the track.''

Leading bookmaker Alan Eskander added: ''If Bart were to follow up and win the Melbourne Cup, it would be a fantastic story and, even as a bookmaker, it's great to see those results that make racing headline news.''