Scottish-trained Nakeeta will carry the ATB colours after securing the last berth in the 24-strong field on Saturday.

To cap off a great outcome for ATB owner Darren Dance and his syndication members, the eight-year-old drew gate three. Regan Bayliss takes the ride.

Dance began the opening day of the Melbourne Cup Carnival at Flemington on Saturday with two horses in the running to force their way into the 3200m assignment.

Yogi needed to win the Lexus Stakes, while Nakeeta – sitting just outsider the cut-off for the 24-strong field limit – had to rely in attrition among those ahead of him.

Yogi was unable to do seventh, ending his hopes.

Nakeeta secured a start after Red Verdon and Tosen Basil did not accept, and Thinkin' Big failed in in the Victoria Derby.

Dance acquired a share of Nakeeta early this year after he finished fifth in last year’s Melbourne Cup.

Dance said it had been a strange day waiting to learn whether the Iain Jardine-trainer gelding was in the field.

“It’s fantastic to have a runner,” he told racing.com after the barrier draw,

He said while Nakeeta’s form did not look great on paper, they were really happy with him physically.

“They tell me he’s in better order than last year.”

Dance acquired a share of Nakeeta early this year after he finished fifth in last year’s Melbourne Cup.

He believes Nakeeta can finish in the first 10, with forecast rain enhancing his hopes.

“It’s been a long journey, but I couldn’t be happier.” he said.

Dance and ATB has had a series of Melbourne Cup runners over the past decade with Heartbreak City finishing second 2016 and Jakkalberry third in 2012.

Tibet was seventh for ATB last year.

The Melbourne Cup journey began for Dance with US stayer Unusual Suspect ninth in 2011.