The Spring Racing Carnival is one of the most popular events in Australia and certainly the most popular on the horse racing calendar. The ultimate race is the Melbourne Cup which occurs annually on the first Tuesday of November however there are plenty more races around Australia to entice traveling enthusiasts. Here is a brief guide to the most popular races that can be perused to gain some insight into the world of competitive horse racing in Australia.
The Everest
The Everest Cup is the world’s richest horse racing event. With a $15million prize, this race brings with it a world of excitement for horse racing enthusiasts. The 1200m race is run at Sydney’s Royal Randwick Racecourse in mid-October. Much like the Melbourne Cup, this event is a highlight of fashion and food and is a staple on the horse racing calendar in NSW.
Caulfield Cup
The Caulfield Cup is a great way to experience the lead up to the Melbourne Cup and is considered to be one of the most important races on the horse racing calendar. This 2400m race is run at Caulfield Racecourse in Melbourne and is truly one to behold. The race is set in mid-October and is a testament to the glory of Australian horse racing. As with all the races during the Spring Racing Carnival, the pleasure of a day on the green could never be better than on a sunny spring day in the great city of Melbourne.
Moonee Valley Cup
Another important race on the calendar is the Moonee Valley Cup which takes place annually in late October. This 2500m race draws in a prize of $500,000 and is the last major long-distance race to be run before the Melbourne Cup. Moonee Valley is quite a picturesque course with brilliant green turf and the city of Melbourne as a striking backdrop. It is host to many other events including the ever-popular Ladbrokes Cox Plate which is popular among pundits all over Australia, many of whom would have some very helpful Moonee Valley Cup tips if one is so inclined. The Moonee Valley Cup is one of the more prestigious horse racing events on the spring racing calendar.
Melbourne Cup
The Melbourne Cup is one of the greatest horse racing events in the world. It’s not just the race itself that’s a highlight, this event is a testament to the elegance and prodigiousness of the city of Melbourne. Fashion is a major part of the day with everyone decked out in their finest spring outfits. A day at the Melbourne Cup includes fashion parades and best-dressed competitions making it an event that is more than just your average horse race. Few people are not invested in looking their best on the day and it is a great time for people to come together and enjoy one of Australia’s most prestigious events. If you are in Melbourne during this time, it is well worth attending the Melbourne Cup to experience the race that stops the nation in all of its glory.
If you’re a horse racing enthusiast, there’s no better place to visit than Australia in the springtime. With so many exciting events on offer that span two of the country’s states, you can plan your entire journey around attending every race that takes your fancy.
