There are so many wonderful things that lure travelers to Australian shores every year and the Spring Racing Carnival is one such reason with many races happening over the three months of this event. Whether it is the Victoria Derby, the Everest or the Melbourne Cup itself, you are spoiled for choice when it comes to horse racing and the surrounding events in Australia. One of the great things about the Spring Racing Carnival, although it is Melbourne centric, is that it expands out to regional Victoria, and includes races in Adelaide, Sydney, Brisbane and Perth as well.
The Melbourne Cup
If you are so inclined to travel and love horse racing then you can create an itinerary throughout the Spring Racing Carnival that will ultimately suit your needs. Depending on where you start, you should culminate your travels in Melbourne where you can witness the esteemed Melbourne Cup in all its glory. The Cup itself takes place on the first Tuesday of November and should not be missed. There is plenty to do on the day and involves good food, fashion events and above all, major excitement when it comes to the race itself.
Brisbane
Though not as well-known as the Melbourne races, Brisbane has its own races which can be considered to be among the greats of Australian horseracing. The Doomben Cup is a well-known event and is a staple among horse racing enthusiasts in Queensland. Head on down to Eagle Farm where you can get your taste of some of the pinnacles of horseracing. The Brisbane Cup cites a lot of excitement for the city. It has a long and illustrious history, beginning in 1886 and is still popular to this day. If you are located on the east side of Australia, then it is worth travelling up to Brisbane to catch a glimpse at the races.
Sydney
Skip over to Sydney where one of the most prestigious races is held. The Everest is one of the most expensive races in the world coming in with a $15,000,000 purse. This is one of the Carnival’s most popular Randwick races and has been known to host many winners that would go on to win the Melbourne Cup, the most prestigious event on the horse racing calendar.
Adelaide
On your way to Perth, it is well worth stopping over in Adelaide. Not only does it have a great climate and beautiful scenery, which can be only topped by maybe Queensland or northern Victoria, but the Balaklava Cup is one of the standouts on the horse racing calendar. This feature race is the biggest in regional South Australia and is popular with celebrities and famous personalities alike.
Perth
Perth is one of the most beautiful cities in the world and is home to a great number of horseracing events. The 2100 metre Boulder Cup is run every year in Kalgoorlie and the Railway Stakes at Ascot is a sight to behold. With a $1,000,000 purse, it is certainly not a race to ignore. Whether it’s the races or the city that takes you across the Nullabor Plains, a visit to Perth will truly complete your Australian road trip.
Explore the wonders of Australia on your next journey and enjoy all that this country and its incredible horse racing network has to offer.
