For those of you who love a good thoroughbred race, the Melbourne Cup is where you want to be in Australia. It was inaugurated back in 1861 and is classified as "The race that stops a nation". The Melbourne Cup is on one of the most prestigious 2 mile races in the world and has been the stomping ground for many of the best races in history.
This race is held in none other than Melbourne, Australia at the Flemington Racecourse which has been the only site of the race. What most people don't know about the Flemington Racecourse is that it used to be 3,218 meters but it was later adjusted to only 3,200 meters due in part of Australia adopting the metric system back in 1970.
Something else that a lot of people are not familiar with is what the qualification for this race is, it is 3 years and up with a minimum handicap weight or 49kg with no maximum handicap weight. This is something that some new thoroughbred race fans don't know and it is good to know so that you have an idea of what bets to place and why. The handicap system has always been around and until recently it didn't start giving less weight to the superior horses.
There has been a longstanding tradition at the Melbourne Cup and many people will come to Australia just to take part in it. This is the rate that many people compare to the United States race, The Kentucky Derby. If you are a race fan than this is one of the races that you will not want to miss and you shouldn't miss. The Melbourne Cup is held on the first Tuesday every November and it starts 10 minutes to 3P.M. Melbourne time.
With a winning purse of over $6 million it is no wonder why so many horse owners, trainers, and jockey's are fighting to get into the race. Being able to go to the Melbourne Cup is a huge accomplishment in any trainer's career so not only will you see the work of the jockey, you will also see the dedication that the trainer had and the determination of the owners. Trust me, seeing the Melbourne Cup in person is going to be a rush in its own right and that is why you need to attend it as soon as possible (preferably this year).
Knowing the history of the Melbourne Cup is only half of the equation, you still have to see it in person.
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