Melbourne Cup

Next month sees the return of Australia’s most prestigious thoroughbred horse race, as the world’s top riders saddle up for the Melbourne Cup. More than just a race, the event has evolved into a key date in the Australian social calendar. Read on to learn more.

History of the Race

The very first Melbourne Cup was held way back in 1861, making it one of the longest-established thoroughbred horse races in the world. Conducted annually by the Victoria Racing Club at Flemington Racecourse, the Melbourne Cup is run over 3,200 meters and is a “quality handicap” for horses 3 years old and over. Handicap contests require the weight of the jockey and riding gear to be adjusted with ballast to meet a nominated figure. Older horses will carry more weight than younger ones, and the weights are also adjusted according to the horse’s previous results. The current record holder at the course is Kingston Rule, who raced to victory in 1990 with a time of 3:16.3.

Melbourne Cup 1920

The Melbourne Cup draws a huge crowd, as seen in this vintage photo of the 1920 race (Image Credit: State Library of Victoria Collections).

The Melbourne Cup is recognized as the richest two-mile handicap globally, and among the world’s richest turf races overall. The total prize fund for the race exceeds AUD$ 6,200,000, in addition to trophies valued at more than AUD$ 175,000. The first 10 horses past the post are awarded a share of the prize money, with last year’s winner Almandin (ridden by Kerrin McEvoy) taking home a cool AUD$ 3.6 million.

The Race That Stops a Nation

The Melbourne Cup is affectionately known as “the race that stops a nation”, and with good reason. Each year, much of Australia literally grinds to a halt to enjoy the spectacle. Approximately two and a half million people tune in to watch the event unfold live on TV, with race day even designated as a public holiday for those working within Melbourne and some parts of Victoria. As with the Grand National in United Kingdom, even those with only a passing interest in horse racing tend to have a flutter.

Melbourne Cup 2016

Kerrin McEvoy celebrates as Almandin raced to victory in the 2016 Melbourne Cup (Image Credit: Getty Images).

The race is also considered one of the biggest days on the Australian social calendar. Flemington Racecourse is the place to be seen, and visitors love to dress up for the occasion. Attendees can enjoy a wide variety of luxurious food and beverage options, as well as the numerous pop-up fashion and entertainment happenings which take place throughout the accompanying Melbourne Cup Carnival. It all adds up to a fabulous day out at one of horse racing’s most iconic events.

Melbourne Cup crowds

Race-goers soak up the atmosphere at the Melbourne Cup (Image Credit: Getty Images).

 

The 2017 Melbourne Cup takes place at Flemington Racecourse in Melbourne, Victoria on Tuesday, November 7. For further details on the build-up to the big race, please visit Flemington’s official website.

Flying to Melbourne

There are two choices of airport available for those traveling to the Melbourne Cup:

Melbourne Airport (IATA: MEL, ICAO: YMML) is located approximately 16km north of Flemington Racecourse.  YMML functions as an Airport of Entry (AoE) 24/7. Prior Permission Required (PPR) and airport slots are not necessary at this airport, however some operators may require a landing permit depending on the noise status of the aircraft, number of passengers and their frequency of operations to Australia. The airport is fully equipped for all ground handling services, and offers passenger and crew lounges. Long term parking is possible, subject to availability.

Essendon Airport (IATA: MEB, ICAO: YMEN) is situated around 9km north from the race venue. YMEN functions as an AoE, although is subject to a curfew from 23:00 to 06:00 local time. Customs and immigrations officers must be arranged in advance, with 48 hours’ notice required for flights with less than nine pax and ten working days required for ten pax and above. Note also that a Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW) restriction applies, with aircraft heavier than 45,000kg not permitted to land at or take off from the airport. PPR and landing permits are required, however slots are not necessary. YMEN offers a full range of ground handling services, as well as passenger and crew lounges. Long term parking is possible for a daily fee, subject to availability.

Arrange Your Trip to the Melbourne Cup With Jetex

Traveling to join the festivities at the Melbourne Cup? Arrive in style with Jetex!

We can deliver a full range of trip planningground handlingaircraft fueling and bespoke concierge services for your next journey to Australia. From obtaining reservations in the most exclusive hotels, to arranging VIP limo transfers and outstanding fine dining experiences, you can trust our team of experts to look after each and every detail.

Book your trip today! To find out more about how you can benefit from our services, please contact our team on +971 4 212 4000 or email info@jetex.com.

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