Melbourne Cup
Whether it is construed as a tribute to the fine animals, or as a mark of Australians' love for horses, the
Melbourne Cup Day is when the whole country concentrates its collective attention on the fabulous race grounds of Flemington. Every TV set in the country would be tuned into the event, and this would have to be the topic of conversation in every pub or sidewalk. Come 3 o'clock and there is a collective holding of breaths... to be let out in a mighty whoop when the winner rushes in like lightning.
The first ever race for the
Melbourne Cup was run in 1861 by seventeen horses and it has been a regular event since then. In the forty odd years since, it has thrown up legends such as Phar Lap and Makybe Diva,
horses more famous than their owners or the jockeys who rode them to success. This goes to prove that it really is all about the horses, even though side shows have made the horse racing event a lot more popular with a lot more people. A name such as Makybe Diva is sure to prick your curiosity as to its origins. It was coined by the owner of the horse, Tony Santic, from the first syllables of the names Maureen, Kylie, Belinda, Diane, and Vanessa - - all workers in his tuna factory.
This is an occasion when women dress to thrill and turn out in designer clothes with accessories to match from head to foot. Outfits from the flamboyant to the bizarre are worn with élan, with matching hats that range from the stylish to those that resemble road kill. Now that we have the attention of the world, this would be the time and the venue for designers to present their efforts, and so knockout designs are displayed to advantage with awards for the best. Not to be outdone men of all ages turn out in their sartorial best too. In fact you can be certain you won't spot denim anywhere in the vicinity. This has got to be the most spectacular, if not the biggest, outdoor fashion event anywhere. And the best thing about it is that it is so easy to join in if you have the nerve, or the false courage supplied by champagne. After spending a fortune on a dress, handbag, hat and shoes, the least you can do is win a prize for it.
The Melbourne Cup is the highlight of the Spring Carnival and has created legendary horses such as Phar Lap and Makybe Diva : Aussiepunter
