Profound Beauty is at the top of the odds list, coming in as the favourite to back for the 2009 Melbourne Cup.

After predicting in 2008 that Profound Beauty would be at her best this year, trainer Dermot Weld is seeing the effects of this statement.

Over the past month the 5 year old has received constant support from punters who are trusting Weld’s prediction.

Originally at $17 as the equal favourite with Victoria and South Australian Derby winner Rebel Raider, the Irish mare has now moved up as the favourite with $13.

However her chances of success come down to the weight she will be required to carry for the Melbourne Cup.

In last year’s Cup she ran 5th carrying 51.5 kg and Weld reckons Profound Beauty has greatly improved since then so carrying 53.5 kg should not be a problem.

Although Weld won’t know for sure until September 3, he is hoping Melbourne Cup winner Glen Boss will be able to ride the mare as long as she can carry a weight under 54 kg.

Anything over that and the reigns will be handed over to Irish jockey Pat Smullen.

Profound Beauty impressed fans this month with her win in the Group 3 2400 metre Ballyroan Stakes and is due to compete in the Irish St Leger.

As one of the overseas nominations, Profound Beauty will also be joined by Singapore’s Jolie’s Shinju and Aidan O’Brien’s Changingoftheguard.

Weld, who won the Melbourne Cup in 1993 with Vintage Crop and in 2002 with Media Puzzle, will also be entering two other entrants into the race – Directa King and Ghimaar.