The Melbourne Cup, Australia’s most prestigious horse race, is one of the most anticipated events of the racing calendar. It’s a race that has been held annually since 1861, and has long been a part of the nation’s sporting, cultural and social fabric. But what many people don’t know is how many horses usually run in the Melbourne Cup. In this article, we’ll explore the answer to that question and look at some other interesting facts about the race.
How Many Horses Usually Run in the Melbourne Cup?
The Melbourne Cup is a 3200 metre handicap race, open to horses aged three years and over. The number of horses that compete in the race each year is determined by the Victoria Racing Club (VRC), who set the field size each year.
The field size has fluctuated over the years, but since the 1980s, the VRC has generally limited the field to 24 starters. This includes the four emergency runners who are on standby in case any of the original 20 runners are scratched from the race.
History of the Melbourne Cup
The Melbourne Cup has a long and illustrious history, and has been held annually since 1861. It is the oldest continuously held horse race in Australia, and has become a major feature of the Australian sporting calendar.
The race was originally run over two miles, with the distance gradually being cut back over the years. The current distance of 3200 metres was set in 1972.
Prize Money
The Melbourne Cup is one of the most lucrative horse races in the world. The prizemoney for the race was increased to $8 million in 2017, making it the richest two-mile handicap in the world.
The winner of the race receives $4.4 million, with the runner-up receiving $1 million. The remaining prizemoney is shared among the other finishers in the race.
Notable Runners
The Melbourne Cup has been won by some of the greatest horses in Australian racing history. Some of the most notable winners of the race include:
- Makybe Diva (2003, 2004, 2005)
- Efficient (2007)
- Doriemus (1995)
- Think Big (1974, 1975)
- Rain Lovers (1966, 1967)
- Archer (1861, 1862)
The Race Day Experience
The Melbourne Cup is an event that attracts people from all walks of life. On race day, the Flemington Racecourse is a sea of colour and excitement as people gather to watch the race and enjoy the carnival atmosphere.
The race is held on the first Tuesday in November each year, and is broadcast live on television across the nation. It’s estimated that more than 80,000 people attend the race each year, making it one of the biggest days on the sporting calendar.
Fashion on the Field
The Melbourne Cup is not just about the horses – it’s also a major fashion event. Every year, the race attracts some of the most stylish and glamorous people in the country, who come to show off their finest outfits.
Fashion on the Field is a popular attraction at the race, and there are a number of prizes on offer for the best dressed on the day. Many people make a special effort to dress up for the occasion, and the competition is always fierce.
The Melbourne Cup Carnival
The Melbourne Cup Carnival is held over four days, from the Saturday before the race to the Tuesday of race day. It’s a celebration of all things racing, with a variety of events and activities for all to enjoy.
The Carnival features a range of races, including the Group 1 Mackinnon Stakes, which is run on the Saturday before the Cup. There are also a number of barrier trials, which are held to give the horses a final tune-up before they tackle the famous 3200 metre race.
The Future of the Melbourne Cup
The Melbourne Cup is one of the most iconic races in the world, and its future looks bright. The race is a major drawcard for the racing industry, and its popularity shows no sign of waning.
The VRC is committed to preserving the integrity of the race, and has made a number of changes in recent years to ensure the safety and welfare of the horses. The number of starters in the race is also likely to remain at 24, ensuring the race remains competitive and entertaining.
Conclusion
The Melbourne Cup is one of the most iconic races in the world, and it’s a day that Australians look forward to all year. The race is held over 3200 metres, and the field size is usually limited to 24 starters. It’s an event that brings people from all walks of life together to celebrate the thrill of racing, and the future of the race looks bright.