The Tab Melbourne Cup: A Comprehensive Guide to the Race That Stops a Nation

Introduction

The Tab Melbourne Cup is one of the most prestigious and iconic horse races in the world, attracting a global audience of millions each year. First held in 1861, the Cup is run over a distance of 3,200 meters at Flemington Racecourse in Melbourne, Australia.

History and Traditions

The Melbourne Cup has a rich history and many traditions associated with it. The race was originally known as the Victoria Derby and was first won by a horse named Archer. The race was renamed the Melbourne Cup in 1864, and the first race under this name was won by Tarragon.

Over the years, the Melbourne Cup has become an important cultural event in Australia. The race is held on the first Tuesday of November each year, and it is a public holiday in the state of Victoria. The race is also known as "the race that stops a nation," as it is estimated that more than half of the Australian population watches the race live on television.

The Course

The Melbourne Cup is run on a flat, turf course at Flemington Racecourse. The course is 3,200 meters in length, and it is considered to be one of the most challenging in the world. The course features two long straightaways and several sharp turns, which makes it difficult for horses to find a good rhythm.

The Horses and Jockeys

The Melbourne Cup is open to horses of all ages and nationalities. However, the race is typically dominated by Australian-bred horses. Some of the most famous horses to win the Melbourne Cup include:

• Phar Lap (1930)
• Makybe Diva (2003, 2004, 2005)
• Vow and Declare (2019)

The Melbourne Cup is also a race for the best jockeys in the world. Some of the most famous jockeys to win the race include:

• Bobby Lewis (4 wins)
• George Moore (3 wins)
• Damien Oliver (3 wins)

The Prize Money

The Melbourne Cup is one of the richest horse races in the world, with a total prize pool of $8 million. The winner of the race receives $4 million, while the second-place finisher receives $1 million.

Betting on the Melbourne Cup

The Melbourne Cup is one of the most popular betting events in the world. In Australia, more than $1 billion is wagered on the race each year. The most common type of bet on the Melbourne Cup is a win bet, which means that you are betting on a horse to win the race. You can also place a place bet, which means that you are betting on a horse to finish in the top three, or an each-way bet, which means that you are betting on a horse to win or place.

The Fashion

The Melbourne Cup is also known for its fashion. Thousands of people attend the race each year dressed in their finest clothes. The most popular fashion trend at the Melbourne Cup is the "racing frock," which is a long, flowing dress that is often made of lace or silk.

The Festivities

The Melbourne Cup is a festive event that is enjoyed by people of all ages. In addition to the race itself, there are a number of other activities that take place on Cup Day, including live music, food and drink stalls, and children's activities.

The Impact of the Melbourne Cup

The Melbourne Cup has a significant impact on the Australian economy. The race generates more than $1 billion in revenue each year, and it supports more than 12,000 jobs.

The Melbourne Cup is also a major tourist attraction. In 2019, more than 300,000 people attended the race, including more than 100,000 international visitors.

Why the Melbourne Cup Matters

The Melbourne Cup is more than just a horse race. It is a cultural event that brings people together from all over the world. The race is a symbol of Australian pride and tradition, and it is a day that is celebrated by people of all ages.

Benefits of Attending the Melbourne Cup

There are many benefits to attending the Melbourne Cup, including:

• Witnessing a world-class horse race
• Enjoying the festive atmosphere
• Dressing up in your finest clothes
• Meeting new people
• Supporting the Australian economy

FAQs

1. When is the Melbourne Cup held?

The Melbourne Cup is held on the first Tuesday of November each year.

2. Where is the Melbourne Cup held?

The Melbourne Cup is held at Flemington Racecourse in Melbourne, Australia.

3. How long is the Melbourne Cup?

The Melbourne Cup is 3,200 meters in length.

4. How much is the prize money for the Melbourne Cup?

The prize money for the Melbourne Cup is $8 million.

5. Who has won the Melbourne Cup the most times?

Bobby Lewis has won the Melbourne Cup four times.

6. What is the most common type of bet on the Melbourne Cup?

The most common type of bet on the Melbourne Cup is a win bet.

7. What is the fashion trend at the Melbourne Cup?

The fashion trend at the Melbourne Cup is the "racing frock," which is a long, flowing dress that is often made of lace or silk.

8. What is the impact of the Melbourne Cup on the Australian economy?

The Melbourne Cup generates more than $1 billion in revenue each year, and it supports more than 12,000 jobs.

Stories and What We Learn

Story 1: The Phar Lap Story

Phar Lap was a legendary Australian racehorse who won the Melbourne Cup in 1930. He was known for his incredible speed and stamina, and he set several world records during his career. Phar Lap's story is a reminder that anything is possible with hard work and determination.

What we learn:

• Never give up on your dreams.
• Hard work pays off.
• Anything is possible if you set your mind to it.

Story 2: The Makybe Diva Story

Makybe Diva was an Australian racehorse who won the Melbourne Cup three times in a row, from 2003 to 2005. She was the first horse to win the race three times in a row, and she is considered to be one of the greatest racehorses of all time. Makybe Diva's story is a reminder that anything is possible if you have the talent and the will to succeed.

What we learn:

• Talent and hard work can take you far.
• Don't be afraid to set big goals.
• Anything is possible if you believe in yourself.

Story 3: The Vow and Declare Story

Vow and Declare was an Australian racehorse who won the Melbourne Cup in 2019. He was a long shot, but he came from behind to win the race in a thrilling finish. Vow and Declare's story is a reminder that anything is possible if you never give up.

What we learn:

• Never give up on your dreams, even when the odds are against you.
• Anything is possible if you have the heart and the determination.
• The underdog can sometimes win.

Tables

Table 1: Melbourne Cup Winners