HISTORY OF THE CUP
LEXUS MELBOURNE CUP
For more than 150 years, the Lexus Melbourne Cup has been the ‘race that stops the nation™’, ever since it first captured the hearts of Australians in 1861. Run over 3200 metres, the Cup attracts the best stayers from around the world. Legends like Archer, Carbine, Phar Lap, Peter Pan, Rain Lover, Think Big, Makybe Diva, and Verry Elleegant have cemented their place in history with Melbourne Cup victories. The Cup’s allure has inspired films such as Phar Lap, The Cup, and Ride Like A Girl, captivating audiences across the globe. As a handicap, where horses are weighted based on their ability and race record, the Melbourne Cup exemplifies Australia’s egalitarian spirit. In 2023, it was Without A Fight, ridden by Mark Zahra, who stormed to victory, securing the coveted Spring Cups double after his earlier Caulfield Cup win. The race also marked an emotional day as jockey Damien Oliver competed in his final Melbourne Cup, a race he won three times in his illustrious career. Doriemus his first in 1995, followed by an emotion-charged victory on Media Puzzle in 2002, and his third coming on board Fiorente in 2013, a first win in the race for Gai Waterhouse.
2023 LEXUS MELBOURNE CUP WINNER WITHOUT A FIGHT (IRE)
George Sal/Racing Photos
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