The 10 Things You Didn’t Know About Melbourne Cup
The Melbourne Cup is one of the most prestigious horse races in the world. Held annually in Australia, the race attracts some of the best thoroughbreds from around the globe. In this blog post, we will discuss 10 things that you may not know about the Melbourne Cup. From its origins to its betting traditions, we will cover it all! So sit back and relax – it’s time to learn about “the race that stops a nation.”
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Melbourne Cup was first to run in 1861
Melbourne cup 1865
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That’s right – the race is over 150 years old! The event was originally known as the “Grand National Steeplechase” and was open to any horse, regardless of pedigree. It wasn’t until 1865 that the race began to be referred to as the “Melbourne Cup.”
Melbourne Cup is run over a distance of two miles
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That’s right – it’s a long race! In fact, it is the longest race on the Australian racing calendar. The Melbourne Cup is also one of the few horse races in the world that are run clockwise.
There is a tradition of wearing red on Melbourne Cup day
Tarien Swaneopel, Philippa Kupsch and Tessa Daly
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This is because, traditionally, ladies would wear red dresses to the event. Nowadays, you’ll see people of all genders and ages sporting red on race day!
The winner of the Melbourne Cup receives a gold trophy
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The trophy is worth over $200,000 and is one of the most valuable prizes in horse racing.
On Melbourne Cup day
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Australians drink the equivalent of 25 million swimming pools of alcohol.
Melbourne Cup is broadcast to over 600 million people around the world
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That’s an incredible audience! The race is also broadcast on radio in over 180 countries.
There is a dress code for the Melbourne Cup.
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Gentlemen are required to wear a suit and tie, while ladies must adhere to a “cocktail dress” code.
Over $100 million is bet on the Melbourne Cup each year
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That’s an incredible amount of money! In fact, it is estimated that one in every two Australians will have a bet on the race.
Melbourne Cup day is a public holiday in the Australian state of Victoria.
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That’s right – race is so important to Australians that the state government has declared a holiday! This means that people in Victoria can enjoy a long weekend every year.
So there you have it – ten things you didn’t know about the Melbourne Cup! We hope you’ve enjoyed learning about this iconic event and we hope you have a great time if you’re lucky enough to be attending this year. Good luck!
Sportsink is the only official VRC licenced Melbourne cup sweeps, decorations and horse racing memorabilia.
image sources:
https://www.topendsports.com
https://www.geraldtonguardian.com au/
http://bookieboys.com/
https://edition.cnn.com/
https://www.punters.com.au/