The Melbourne Cup always approaches fast, with the race commencing at 3pm, Tuesday 6 November. The race that stops a nation is more exciting than ever this year, with a number of celebrations taking place both inside and outside the racecourse. While the $6.175 million Emirates Melbourne Cup is the centrepiece of the Melbourne Cup Carnival, there are plenty of additional races and social events to keep everyone busy.
There are a total of ten races taking place throughout the day, with varying race distances and prize values on offer. While the 3200 metre Emirates Melbourne Cup is by far the longest, most valuable, and most prestigious event, the entire Melbourne Cup day spectacle is organised as a complete and enthralling package.
Everyone knows just how much people enjoy getting dressed up and having a bet for this special day, with women wearing their most extravagant hats and most colourful dresses. A number of marquees are set up for VIP guests, with fashion parades and other entertainment also taking place throughout the day. Corporate marquee and dining packages are already available for bookings, with shared marquees also available for hire.
A General Admission Season Pass is being offered this year for the 2012/13 racing season, permitting access to general admission areas of all VRC race meetings, including the Melbourne Cup Carnival. This pass is being sold for $200, with a total value of $564. There are a range of other ticketing options available to choose from, including general admission, reserved grandstand seating, corporate dining, restaurant dining, and a variety of members options.
Here is a full list of the day’s events, with things heating up nicely from 10.20am and also given time to cool down after the big race.
Ottowa Stakes $121,500 LR 2yo fillies sw 1000m 10.20am
TAB Sportsbet Handicap $101,500 n/a Mares hcp 1700m 11.00am
Lavazza Long Black $101,000 n/a Hcp 0-95 2800m 11.45am
Herald Sun Stakes $201,500 Gr.3 Mares SW&P 1400m 12.30pm
Schweppes Tonic 100 $101,500 n/a 3yo SW&P 1000m 1.15pm
Lexus Hybrid Plate $151,500 LR 3yo Fillies SW&P 1400m 2.00pm
Emirates Melbourne Cup $6,200,000 Gr.1 Hcp 3200m 3.00pm
Johnnie Walker Stakes $151,500 LR Hcp 1800m 3.55pm
MSS Security Sprint $151,500 LR Hcp 1200m 4.35pm
Handicap $101,500 n/a 4&5yo hcp 0-89 1400m 5.15pm
The Melbourne Cup truly is the richest prize in Australian sport, contested by horses from all over the world. It is amazing when you think that Australia stops to a standstill to listen to and watch the big event, with a 100,000 plus crowd also expected to witness the race live.
It’s not all about the racing however, with a wide range of fashion, dining, and entertainment also on offer. The Flemington Racecourse will come alive again this November with fashion shows, music, and the best selections of food and beverages that money can buy.
