The Melbourne Cup is an iconic Australian event. On the first racing Tuesday of November. All eyes will be watching the horse line-up at Flemington racecourse in what is set to become another exciting race and the tradition of an Australian pastime. This year’s event is expected to draw over 100,000 people to watch the horse that will win the cup and claim the six million dollar purse at Flemington.
The Melbourne Cup symbolises more than just a race. It encapsulates the positive and fun feelings that we represent as a nation. From coast to coast, community-to-community, people will be enjoying the Melbourne Cup in the way that they best feel reflects them. We want to share the story why the Melbourne Cup captures the emotions for all Australians.
It is the pride of the Australian nation.
The event has been instrumental in being a symbol of hope for the Australian people. For over one hundred years, the Melbourne Cup has provided Australians with a sense of joy. Some of the most iconic moments that the Melbourne Cup has shared include:
- The legend of Phar Lap during the depression era. The horses wins and records gave hope and inspiration to Australians during the Depression era.
- The legend of Makybe Diva. The only horse to have won three consecutive Melbourne Cup races still has Australians in awe and relates to the true Aussie grit that is at the heart of this great nation.
- The legend of Bart Cummings. His 12 Melbourne Cup wins came from 11 winning horses. The trainer had a system where he continually produced championship-winning horses.
Australians love to share in the success of Melbourne Cup winners.
It’s the one-day of the year where it is socially acceptable to take a punt.
The Melbourne Cup day will see most Australians become a racing expert for a day. The Melbourne Cup is the biggest day of the year for bookies in the horseracing industry. Melbourne Cup betting among casual punters looking to place their one bet per year are encouraged to take a look at how the odds work and how to place the bets.
It is the one place where women can make a fashion statement.
The Melbourne Cup is well known for women flaunting fashionable looks from head to toe. With several competitions on the day competing for the ‘best dressed look’, there will be plenty of fashionable eye-candy on offer for those that are into different and unique fashion styles.
It is one big party!
The overall theme is to go out and have fun with your mates. With over 100,000 people going to the Melbourne cup, it will be a fun day out with musical entertainment, fashionable women, horse races and being able to rub shoulders with celebrities. The day is usually supported by the spring sunshine, so there is plenty of opportunity to have fun in the sun.
Children can participate in child-friendly Melbourne Cup activities.
It is common for Australian schools to have children participate in Melbourne Cup activities. It is common for students to listen to the race by radio (if the teacher allows it!) Although nowadays, it is likely that the students will be watching the event streamed on their smart device or even on the school television. Other activities may include a hat parade (as a tribute to the hat designs that will be on display at the Melbourne Cup.)
It’s a great way to network.
The event draws the star-studded community of Australian celebrities. Television and radio personalities, models and powerful business magnates will be present on the day participating in punts on the racing draws and celebrating the days wins and losses.
There are plenty of reasons to enjoy the Melbourne Cup. We hope that you will enjoy this year’s cup in your own unique way. Get out there, have a bit of fun and enjoy the action that the day will have on offer.