Track & Field
It’s one of the oldest sports of all time, yet current trends and corporate enclosures are fast overshadowing the world of horse racing. The basic premise of two or more horses running a track to see which can prevail has withstood the test of time. But when it comes to the form guide and the festivities of the modern day Melbourne Cup Carnival, it’s the latter that is now first past the post.
THE FASHION
With outfit planning and beauty appointment bookings taking place months in advance, the Melbourne Cup Carnival has become one of the most anticipated fashion events of the year. There are the ones that devote time and money to try their luck at Fashions on the Field, the ones that go all out for their exclusive marquees, the ones that get dolled up just for a bit of fun, and then there are the ones that stumble out after a little too much to drink, shoes in hand. A mixed bag, certainly. But the concept of heading to the track just to watch the best horses battle it out is one that is slowly being engulfed by the latest fascinator or designer dress. It’s becoming more about the materialistic details and how trendy your outfit is, judged for the most part by how many likes your photo can get on Instagram, rather than about the actual horses. Nowadays, the Melbourne Cup Carnival is more of a fashion spectacular than anything else.
Originally a playground for the rich, the fashion stakes of the Carnival have been in its origins since the 1860s. Being such an era, it was a chance for the women to gloat and outdo each other at every race meet. Declaring their wealth in the form of a crinoline domed skirt, dressing to impress has been on the agenda from the outset.
As the 20th century rolled on, the dresses got shorter, the hats got bigger and the women got rowdier. By the 1980s, the statement of ‘less is more’ had rocked Flemington, with spectators challenging the sophistication of race wear in the years prior. Fast forward to the 21st century, and a common race day outfit now consists of a designer frock, floral crown and a simple heel that can withstand the day’s longevity.
While racegoers have been sporting fancy looks for years, the rising interest in the fashion and accessories is making a complete mockery of the sport. With teenagers and young adults mimicking what our native socialites and reality TV stars are wearing, future generations are headed for a Melbourne Cup Carnival that is a far cry from its birth. And with the current cohort’s ability to follow a trend, it looks like we’re in for a bumpy ride.
THE DRINKING
The Melbourne Cup Carnival encompasses everything about Spring, from a frolic in the sun to a picnic in the park — with a few too many champagnes as the day goes on. The celebrations start in the carpark, with popup marquees and packed lunches taking prime position to witness the greatness of directed car parking. Alternatively, you can head on through the gates early and set up camp on the lawn, where you can people-watch and remove those shoes if you missed the low sensible heel memo. Due to Australia’s desire to hit the bottle at first chance, the line to the bar is usually as long as the Eastern Freeway by the time the first race has run, so be prepared to miss a few highlights for that bottle of Yellow.
Along with the fun and laughter of the bubbles flowing comes the inevitable intoxication of those that aren’t sure when to stop. What started off as a fresh Spring morning soon turns into a sloppy mid-afternoon, where stumbling, smeared eye make up and heels in the gutter are on point — not to mention the ones that didn’t even make the feature race but lay asleep on a seat somewhere in the betting ring.
Our nation’s drinking culture has developed over the years, and much the same as the carnival’s fashion stakes, the crowd is always eager to get involved. Whether you tackle the crowds of the main race meets, or host a Cup Day BBQ at home, drinking is the epicentre for the everyday Aussie. With the 138-year-old public holiday providing the perfect excuse to sit back and have a few beers, it’s no wonder that Cup Day has become a highlight on the state’s calendar. But wait a second, amongst the hamburgers and Coronas, did someone mention something about a horse race?
THE GAMBLING
No matter where you look, billboards, advertisements and applications are ready to tempt innocent spectators into the underworld of gambling. Throw a few addicts in there, and a Saturday afternoon becomes a trip to the candy store for the kids that just can’t get enough. From Sportsbet to Tom Waterhouse to Ladbrokes; betting agencies are at the forefront of any sporting event.
Sports betting has been around for thousands of years, and it’s difficult to pinpoint its origin. Nevertheless, the pastime is a prime aspect of the races: there aren’t many people that wouldn’t have a bet when attending the Melbourne Cup Carnival.
For those that aren’t familiar with the system, benefits of race odds include giving insight into the likely winner and comparing competitors in the field. For others, the price changes in the odds is like a game of Deal or No Deal; should I settle for the bookie’s fixed price or take the chance and hope the tote pays better in the end? And then there’s that constant battle whether to back the $1.90 favourite outright, or go each way on the long-shot tip you received earlier in the week. While some social punters fancy a flutter on a horse with a relatable name or their favourite number, the serious gamblers manage to ‘find’ an omen in every race. Despite the lack of connection or if the wallet is running dry, the odds linger and lure them back in. While some may thrive on the adrenaline of the race, that addiction element can cause far more than a few pennies to go down the drain; the beauty of the race, the horses and the atmosphere is consumed by the urge to ride your horse home. Punters are losing sight of the magic that is the Melbourne Cup Carnival, with their collections of the day the only thing on their minds.
THE HORSES
Among the commotion and celebrations, there are the top thoroughbreds from around the world that take on the Flemington racetrack. Their speed, beauty and agility would have to be admired by even the faintest of horse lover, while their muscular hind and long strides work together to get them to the finish line. It’s these qualities that can put on a show like no other: the excitement of a photo finish in the Melbourne Cup is incomparable.
Yet, our attention still shifts to other festivities; the fashion, the drinking, the gambling. While we can revel in these bonus extras, the real focus should remain on the races — we are consumed by the glitz and glamour of international performers and celebrity appearances, when the real guests of honour are the elite athletes that grace the track. It’s about time we start noticing.
Guilty of paying a little too much attention to your outfit instead of the feature races last year? You’re forgiven. But get yourself up to speed using the link below, and be ready to witness a few decent battles this time around.
Spring Racing has developed into a league of it own, compiled of as much action off the track as there is on it. So, go all in. Get dressed up, have a glass of champagne, have a bet on one you like the name of and watch it run among some of the best horses in the world. Win, place or dead heat, take it all in and just enjoy the show.
See you at the track.
