Note: This piece was written as Deputy Editor for Idol Horse.
It is Australia’s most famous race and one of the most famous races on the planet – the Melbourne Cup.
It is the start of Australia’s hospitality season that runs through until Christmas as many Australians attend office parties and functions. Many will pause at 3pm on November 4 as 24 stayers aim to land one of the world’s great prizes over 3200m at Flemington Racecourse.
It remains Australia’s most famous race, the country’s most watched race and the Australian race that attracts most attention globally, even as challengers like The Everest – worth twice as much – have made inroads in recent years.
This year’s Melbourne Cup will be run for A$10 million (US$6.48 million) for the first time. It is also set to feature the first ever American-trained runner.
Idol Horse‘s Andrew Hawkins is a leading Melbourne Cup expert. His annual preview is now live following the barrier draw.
Check out his thoughts at Idol Horse.