This post is dedicated to Sugi and Celia – sports fanatic and fashion expert. Thanks to Cissy, lady who carries her camera in style, for some of these photos.
If you want to make Vancouver Hastings Horse Racing big, you ought to see how Melbourne does it – a public holiday dedicated to horse racing and dressing up!
Melbourne Cup is recognized as a public holiday in the state of Victoria, held on the first Tuesday of November.
3 Aussie Must-Watch Sports
There are a few sporting events one must watch while in Melbourne. If not, be prepared to defend yourself from “you-went-to-Melbourne-for-a-year-and-didn’t-do that?!” look of horror.
What are they?
- Footy (Australian football)
- Melbourne Spring Carnival (horse racing)
- Australian Open (tennis)
Cricket and car racing are also very popular in Australia, but given the choice, the former 3 are more interesting to me. Footy is checked off; Australian Open doesn’t start until mid-January; that leaves Melbourne Spring Carnival, which is now also checked off.
Horse Racing for the Elite: Melbourne Spring Carnival
Okay, so what’s the big fuss? Horse racing is only but a game that generates US $115 billion world-wide (2008); an ancient sport that’s remained relatively unchanged over time; and has been deemed “Sport of Kings”1.
It is/was basically entertainment for the elite. In 1861 when the first Melbourne Cup was hosted, the Cup became the choice for the overnight gold rush millionaires to splurge on2. Over time, fashion – hats, fascinators, suits, roses – became a major part of the carnival. They even have prize money for the best-dressed women and men3.
Fashion at Caulfield Cup
To be honest, I am not really interested in horse racing. I am more interested in getting a feel of the atmosphere, to see how everyone gets excited, dressed and drunk. That’s why we decide to go to the qualifying race (cheaper admission) that leads up to the Melbourne Cup (Nov. 5) instead, the Caulfield Cup (Oct.18). Here are photos from that day (minus the selfies):
There are a lot of people and a lot of people dressed up. During a race, you can hear people holding their breath while giving shouts of exhilaration. Unfortunately/fortunately, we make no bets, so I don’t have the full gambling experience and cannot share the wealth. Nonetheless, it is a neat experience to see everyone participate with such enthusiasm!
So, Vancouver, what do you think? Public holiday for horse racing?
