Melbourne Cup

Melbourne Cup History

The Melbourne Cup is an esteemed horse racing event that captures the attention of the nation. Known as the race that stops a nation, this prestigious occasion is an integral part of Australian culture, showcasing not only the country's best thoroughbred horses, but also offering a day filled with fashion, entertainment, and socializing. With the event's focus on horse racing, it also provides significant opportunities for the betting community, highlighting the diverse range of interests that encompass the Melbourne Cup experience.

First run in 1861, the Melbourne Cup has gradually transformed into Australia's most popular annual thoroughbred horse race, drawing visitors from around the world. Covering a distance of 3,200 meters, the race forms an important part of the international racing calendar, with horses from various countries participating. The occasion is not only a sporting event but also a day for people to embrace the surrounding fashion and glamour, with the tradition of Fashions on the Field emerging in the early 1960s, further emphasizing the cultural significance of the event.

The Melbourne Cup is observed with a public holiday in the state of Victoria, allowing residents the opportunity to fully engage with the festivities. The event takes place annually on the first Tuesday of November, with Flemington Racecourse as its iconic backdrop. A range of activities and celebrations support the day, from the horse races themselves to fashion events, food and wine experiences, and live entertainment. The Melbourne Cup remains a key date in the Australian calendar, encapsulating the essence of the nation's love for sport, fashion, and social engagement.

Top facts about Melbourne Cup

• Until 2024, Lexus will be the official sponsor of the Melbourne Cup.
• The winner of the Melbourne Cup in 2022 was Gold Trip, with the jockey Mark Zahra.
• The official flower of the Melbourne Cup is the yellow rose.
• Since 2000, only two Australian-bred horses have managed to win the Melbourne Cup - Viewed in 2008 and Shocking in 2009.
• The Melbourne Cup was first run on a Thursday in 1861 for a winning purse of 710 gold sovereigns and a gold watch.
• The first Tuesday of November, every year it is the same. Every Aussie heart is beating with the excitement of the game, for they bet on dream or fancy or forms they've followed up from a dollar to thousands on the famous Melbourne Cup. - Slim Dusty, Australian Country Music Star (song: The Melbourne Cup)

In the News and Trending for Melbourne Cup

Top things to do for Melbourne Cup

• Attend the race on race day!!!! Tickets can be pricey but if bought in advance, they're affordable. Get out your outfit in preparation.
• Donate to the Starlight Children's Foundation, the 2015 Melbourne Cup Carnival Pin and Win Charity Partner. The organisation raises funds to support seriously ill children and their families.
• Attend the Emirates Melbourne Cup Tour. This tour passes through Australia, New Zealand and Malaysia giving the opportunity for local people and communities to experience the magic of the $200,000 Cup Trophy.
• Spread awareness on social media for the race day by using hashtags such as #MelbourneCupDay, #MelbourneRaceDay and #EmiratesCup.
• Watch a movie about horseracing around the world. Some of our favourites include Seabiscuit (2003), Secretariat (2010), Ruffian (2007), The Cup (2011) and Champions (1983). The Cup is even based on the Melbourne Cup's 2002 race.