The Melbourne Cup horse race will be run for the 163rd time on Tuesday. The 3,200-metre race will be held at Flemington and contested by some of Australia’s and the world’s best stayers.
It is the richest handicap race in the world, with a prize pool of $8m.
What time is it on?
The Melbourne Cup, which is race seven on the program, is scheduled for 3pm AEDT (Victoria, New South Wales, Australian Capital Territory and Tasmania). It will be on in Queensland at 2pm AEST, in South Australia at 2.30pm ACDT, in the Northern Territory at 1.30pm ACST, and in Western Australia at noon AWST.
How can I follow the race?
It will be shown on Network 10, and broadcast via radio on ABC Local. It will also be televised on the Racing.com digital channel and streamed via 10play and Kayo.
Commercial radio broadcasts vary by state, but there will be coverage on a number of networks including RSN, SEN and Nine radio.
Who are the favourites?
Vauban, a French horse trained in Ireland by Willie Mullins, is the bookmakers’ choice, though it has been rare for the favourite to win, especially in the past two decades.
Other fancies include last year’s winner and top weight, Gold Trip, who is only carrying a kilogram more than last year, and Without a Fight.
There are 24 horses in the race.
What is the weather forecast?
The Bureau of Meteorology is forecasting a partly cloudy day with a high chance of showers, most likely in the afternoon and evening – meaning it could be a wet cup. There could be as much as 4mm of rain and there is also a chance of a thunderstorm.
A top of 29C is expected, with a minimum of 16C.
Australian Associated Press contributed to this report
