Tag: spring racing carnival

At the Races: Staying Stylish in Rain, Hail or Shine

Posted on by Online Betting Pro

There’s no such thing as a sure bet when it comes to Melbourne weather. And that old saying “Don’t like the weather? Just wait five minutes”, was most likely coined in spring. The only way to counter the sports capital’s unpredictable climate is to be prepared for anything….and pack an umbrella!

Layer upon layer

Staying stylish trackside can be problematic, but Melbourne Cup Week fashion just takes some planning. Most race days start early and finish late so a jacket or light- weight coat will offset a cool morning- at either end of the adventure. Borrowing your partner’s suit jacket when the weather heads south is a no-no, so plan to take your own option. Keep proportions in mind when adding a coat to ensure the whole look is consistent. You don’t want that extra layer to look like an after thought. Mid-length skirts or dresses with a pencil skirt look best with a short tailored coat or jacket. If you’re wearing a full skirt look for a short coat or jacket with a defined waist. And a tuxedo blazer will take your jumpsuit to the next level.

In the trenches

A trench is the perfect option and is always in style. There are myriad colours and cuts in stores at the moment, so it shouldn’t be too hard to find something to suit your style and budget. Just watch the length. If it finishes above the knee, your skirt should be longer than the coat to avoid looking like you have nothing on underneath! The downside to a trench is that it covers most of your outfit, which isn’t ideal if you keep it on all day. Consider wearing it open with the belt tied loosely behind your back, or replace the belt with a scarf that ties in colours from your headpiece

Here comes the sun

What do you do with those extra layers when the sun makes an appearance? Flemington has free cloakrooms available for all racegoers throughout Cup Week. They are located in both the members and public areas. If you forget to collect your items at the end of the meeting, they will be held for 30 days and can be picked up on other race days, or between 8.30am and 4.30pm, Monday to Friday.

Hold on to your hats

Unless you want to spend the day chasing your hat, spend some time making sure it is secure before you leave home. Quality pieces generally have built in anchors, such as combs, fascinator clips, elastics and even Velcro strips. Look for these additions when buying your headwear and figure out how they work before the wind picks up. A simple up do provides more options for attaching your headpiece and is easier to control on the day. Finish the hairstyle with a dry spray wax (before adding the hat!) to protect against wind and rain and slip some bobby pins into your bag for emergency adjustments.

Keep it clean

A beautiful pair of satin or fabric pumps won’t look so pretty when they have been trudging through mud. Leather is much easier to clean and can even be spruced up trackside with a baby wipe. No matter the forecast, always apply a water proofing spray at least 24 hours ahead of time. It will protect against grass stains on neutral coloured shoes and spilled beverages.

Always wear sunscreen

Never skip this step of your preparation. You can still get burnt on a cloudy day. Use an SPF moisturiser on your face neck and ears and a quality, lightweight sunscreen for your legs, arms and shoulders. Melt proof make up and waterproof mascara is also a good idea.

Melbourne Cup Carnival an Event for Everyone

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For the hardcore punters, Melbourne’s Spring Racing Carnival is a three-month long festival of black-type racing and a celebration of the champions of the Australasian turf. But for the majority of those with just a passing interest in the sport of kings, the four days of the Melbourne Cup Carnival at Flemington are about as long as their attention span (and funds) will stretch.

It’s not hard to see where the Victoria Racing Club (VRC) focusses its energies either, with nary a mention or image of a thoroughbred racehorse on their homepage. But despite interest waning over the past decade (attendances have dropped about 25 per cent in that period, down from a staggering 418,069 in 2006), this four-day festival is, for the bulk of the Australian population, the only time they’ll pick up a form guide each year.

WFA feature highlights carnival finale

The structure of the Melbourne Cup Carnival has changed little in recent history – AAMI Victoria Derby on the first Saturday (October 29 this year), Emirates Melbourne Cup Day on the first Tuesday in November, Crown Oaks Day on Thursday (November 3) and Emirates Stakes Day on the final Saturday (November 5).

But in a significant change this year, the Emirates Stakes has been shifted to Derby Day and renamed the Cantala Stakes (it remains a Group 1 race over 1600m). Confusingly, the VRC have shifted the L.K.S. MacKinnon Stakes from Derby Day to the final day, and have renamed it the Emirates Stakes! It remains a weight-for-age race over 2000 metres although prizemoney has been boosted to AUD $2 million. It was hoped that dual Cox Plate winner Winx would run, but she’s been sent to the paddock after last Saturday’s remarkable win.

An appropriate arena for racing royalty

In stark contrast to the tight and tricky Moonee Valley layout around which Winx again smashed her rivals, Flemington is all about space. The course proper is just over 2300m and features one tight corner just after the winning post, and a sweeping turn from the 1300m mark until the start of the home straight around 500m from home.

Uniquely, all races up to 1200m are run down Flemington’s famous ‘Straight Six’, culminating in the AUD $1,000,000 Group 1 Darley Classic on the final day of the carnival. It’s quite a sight (and a racecaller’s nightmare) to see runners spread right across the track in search of the best ground. The Melbourne Cup combines both courses, starting at the 1000m mark before runners complete a full circuit of the main track to complete the most famous 3200 metres in the sport.

155 years on, it’s still that race that stops a nation

The highlight of the week is, of course, the AUD $6 million Emirates Melbourne Cup. One of the world’s great handicap contests, the Melbourne Cup is also much more than a horse race – it’s a revered sporting, social and cultural event, that continues to play a significant role in defining Australia’s national identity.

Scores of TAB and picnic race meetings across the nation (almost 50 this year), along with thousands of office parties and BBQs on Melbourne Cup Day help define the event as the race that truly stops the nation. At second acceptances on Monday, 32 horses remain in contention for one of the 24 starting positions. Hartnell, which finished eight lengths second to Winx in Saturday’s Cox Plate, is the $4.60 favourite with William Hill ahead of Caulfield Cup winner Jameka ($6.50). Saturday’s Lexus Stakes is the last chance to earn a guaranteed start.

A Gentleman’s Guide to Race Wear – Dressing to Impress

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Men weren’t invited to enter Fashions on the Field competitions until the early 2000s. Despite being so late to the party, they’re catching up fast and embracing the opportunity to have a flutter with fashion. Many race wear “rules” apply to both sexes with a day at track calling for elegant and classic looks. But you can still pay homage to the race day traditions without sacrificing your own comfort and identity.

Suit yourself

The best tip when selecting a suit is to find one that fits really well and complements your colouring. The weather is warming up, so think about lighter and softer fabrics and colours, such as pale blue, grey and beige. If you want to embrace a bold colour opt for a cobalt blue or navy and accessories with cherry reds, peachy ambers or grass greens. The races are also a great time to wear something you wouldn’t in the boardroom. Try loud windowpane checks or a double breasted style.

Separating the men from the boys

If a suit isn’t part of your work uniform, separates are a better investment. A smart sports coat and pair of chinos can be elevated to race day attire by adding a sharp shirt and quirky bow tie. You’ll get a lot more wear out of them post spring carnival, and probably feel more comfortable on the day.

Mix and match

There is a lot of heritage and tradition associated with race wear, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have some fun with your look. A tie is a great way to up the ante without going too far out of your comfort zone. It can be used to introduce an unexpected pop of colour, such as pairing a solid pastel tie with a shirt in a dark check, or clashing a bold striped tie with a check suit. Don’t forget about texture either. A knitted tie adds an extra element of interest.

It’s hip to be square

This year the blokes who really want to up their game will be adding a pocket square to their ensemble. That final flourish should contrast with the jacket and complement – not replicate – the tie. The basic rule of thumb is to pair a patterned pocket square with a plain suit, and a solid one with a checked jacket. When you’re shopping for a pocket square remember that only a tiny portion will be seen. Think about how it will look when it’s in your pocket.

Once you’ve made your selection, it’s time to learn how to fold it. You won’t need a degree in origami, a quick search on Google will reveal all. The “puff fold” is popular and relatively easy to pull off. Just lay the square flat, pinch it in the middle, let the fabric fall naturally and then stuff it in your pocket.

Do’s and don’ts

Even if all you do when planning your outfit is follow these basic rules you’ll be on a winner.

  • Don’t use a tiepin that is wider than your tie
  • Do consider a visit to the tailor to ensure your suit fits perfectly
  • Don’t fasten the bottom button of your jacket or waistcoat
  • Do show a little shirt beneath your suit cuff
  • Do wear cufflinks, this isn’t just another day at the office
  • Do wear socks; this is not the time to flash the mankles
  • Don’t wear runners, no matter how cool they look with your suit

Contenders Galore Line Up For 2016 Caulfield Cup

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The experts would have you believe that the Melbourne Cup is the toughest race of the spring to win. Bollocks. In the vast majority of years, there are maybe 5-6 genuine Melbourne Cup contenders (unless, of course, Typhoon Frankie Dettori KOs the bulk of the contenders allowing a 150-1 pop to take the race à la 2015). In contrast, a genuine winning case can generally be made for the bulk of the Caulfield Cup field each year. Not many horses can run out a genuine Group 1-quality two miles. Plenty can run out a very strong 2400m.

In contrast, a genuine winning case can generally be made for the bulk of the Caulfield Cup betting field each year. Not many horses can run out a genuine Group 1-quality two miles. Plenty can run out a very strong 2400m.

Blue Sapphire an appetizer for the main event

The BMW Caulfield Cup Carnival continues on Wednesday (Australian Eastern Daylight Time) with the running of the AUD $350,000 Group 3 Catanach’s Jewellers Blue Sapphire Stakes. After the Thousand Guineas was shifted to the Caulfield Guineas Day in 2012, this set weights’ affair for three-year-olds over 1200m became the feature act on the middle day of the carnival. The billing/prizemoney hasn’t been matched by the quality of the field in recent years for this awkward albeit lucrative spot on the spring racing calendar, but that’s not the case this year. It’s worth noting that horses nominated for the AUD $1 million G1 Blue Diamond Stakes earlier in the year automatically qualify for this race.

Price colt is simply Flyin’

The 3yo class of 2016 is one of the strongest in recent years, which nicely franks the hype and price surrounding Golden Slipper place-getter Flying Artie. Mapped to get the perfect run from barrier 4, Mick Price’s colt remains a steal at $2.10 on the William Hill board. Flying Artie won the Blue Diamond Prelude last campaign before finishing second to stablemate Extreme Choice in the Blue Diamond, then third in the Golden Slipper to Capitalist. It’s worth noting that three of the past four winners have been favourites while the past four victors all started in barrier 5 or closer to the fence. He rates about four lengths ahead of this field so even allowing for a less-than-perfect run, he should be conquering this bunch.

Oaks winner leads Cup market

The line-up for the AUD $3 million BMW Caulfield Cup has been finalised with a field of 20 to chase the first prize of AUD $1.75 million on Saturday afternoon. Despite a miserable start to the week, the Caulfield track has so far held up remarkably well, so good conditions are likely for the toughest 2400m test in the country. Last year’s Victorian Oaks winner Jameka (barrier 13) is the dominant favourite for the race at $3.40 ahead of Darren Weir’s sole runner Real Love (10), the winner of the JRA Cup, at $9. Go Dreaming will carry just 50.5kg from the cherished inside draw but remains a $201 pop.

Internationals to make their mark on Saturday

More and more international trainers are bringing their Melbourne Cup contenders to town for at least one run ahead of the world’s richest handicap race on the first Tuesday in November. This year, four internationals will line up in the 2016 Caulfield Cup with Aidan O’Brien represented by Sir Isaac Newton, Charlie Appleby saddling up Scottish and Melbourne Cup-winning trainer Andreas Wohler represented by Articus. Lee and Anthony Freedman now train former Sir Michael Stoute galloper Exospheric, formerly known as Exosphere. All have drawn reasonably and attracted interest from local punters – Articus (11) and Scottish (7) are at $8, Exospheric (3) is a $10 quote, while Sir Isaac Newton, which will start from barrier 9, is rated an $11 hope.

Seasoned Mares Unhappy With New Fashion Stable

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FASHIONISTAS will swap the catwalk for photo booths at Melbourne Racing Club’s new look Fashions on the Field, kicking off at the new Caulfield Guineas Fashion Stable.

Instead of clutching a number and showing off their style on the runway, entrants in this year’s competition will have a mini-styling session before having their photos taken, with their three favourites put to the judges.

A new people’s choice award will also be run on social media in the days following the event.

A “squad” category for groups of two to eight has also been introduced.

The action will all take place in the Fashion Stable, a new trackside fashion and lifestyle precinct sponsored by David Jones.

The Fashion Stable will also house a spacious lounge area and trackside bar, flowing with Chandon and Catalina Sounds as well as premium food.

Those who love a stylish accessory will be able to buy a unique Chandon champagne flute to take home.

The changes were announced not long after the major sponsor for Fashions on the Field – Chadstone – bowed out after more than 10 years of bank rolling the event.

The naming rights for the new format – the Style Stakes – is now held by Westfield.

The MRC says the reformatted event aimed to appeal to a broader audience.

MRC chief commercial officer told News Corp that it would be more inclusive with people who didn’t want to get on stage to compete able to take part.

Not everyone is looking forward to the new format.

Seasoned competitors have flooded social media with concerns about the changes at Caulfield with some threatening to boycott this year’s Fashions on the Field (FOTF).

Many have voiced their disappointment via Facebook page It’s All About the Sash, set up by Em Scodellaro for the fashions on the field community.

After writing to the MRC and presenting them with a survey conducted via the Facebook page Ms Scodellaro was given a thorough briefing about the new precinct.

In a recent post to her followers Ms Scodellaro said the precinct boasted a “huge catwalk” that would feature parades showcasing fashion available at David Jones.

The parades would be similar to those run at Melbourne Spring Fashion Week and would “bring fashion to the racegoer”, she said.

Ms Scodellaro said she was told by the MRC that their statistics showed a decline in entries to FOTF.

“I did mention that this could be partly due to the decline in prize money over the years attracting less participants,” she said.

She also pointed out that the over 40s category had been overlooked in the new format.

“They had their own category in the past… this was a major draw card for entrants who had entered previously,” Ms Scodellaro said.

She said the MRC agreed to take those concerns on board when planning future events.

DJ’s biggest fashion rival Myer is also shaking things up for the Melbourne Cup Carnival.

Myer has scratched its traditional marquee in the Birdcage for Oaks Day, with an exclusive ladies lunch to be held in its place.

The country’s most celebrated and dynamic women, including politicians, philanthropists, actors, artists, business leaders and entrepreneurs have been invited to the event.

Sacred Elixir Just The Tonic in Caulfield Guineas

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October in Melbourne means having sunscreen and thermal underwear at the ready as anything can happen weather-wise, and the Caulfield Guineas is no exception.

On the eve of the first million-dollar race of the Melbourne Spring Racing Carnival – the AUD $1 million Ladbrokes Caulfield Guineas (1600m) – the Caulfield track is rated a good (3), but cooler conditions and showers are forecast prior to the first race.

Expect the track to remain in the good (3-4) range, while the rail will be in the true position for the 10-race card. Fingers crossed, the track should provide an even chance for on-pace and run-on horses.

Good medicine for the Guineas

Punters couldn’t scribble the name of Kiwi gelding Sacred Elixir into their black books quick enough after his stirring win in the Guineas Prelude (1400m) here two weeks ago. Parked off the speed by Damian Lane, he gathered the leaders up with ease.

Yes, Impending’s win in the Stan Fox (1500m) at Rosehill rated stronger, but there are two knocks on the Godolphin colt – he’s drawn in 10 and is making his first start at Caulfield, which has brought better horses undone than this promising Lonhro colt. A total of 11 of the past 14 winners have come from single digit gates.

Thousand reasons to stick with Foxplay

The sheer weight of numbers should mean at least one of the Sydney-siders pinches the AUD $500,000 Schweppes Thousand Guineas for the 3yo fillies, and it’s hard to find a knock against Chis Waller’s eye-catching filly Foxplay.

She cruised home in the G2 Furious (1200m) at Randwick before finding a hole late to dart through to take out the G2 Tea Rose (1400m) three weeks ago. With Hugh Bowman aboard and the perfect draw from barrier 5, the $3.70 available on William Hill still offers about half a point of value. Fellow Sydney horse Global Glamour looks a logical pick for the quinella.

Winx, and you’ll miss it

In 1939, Ajax was sent out a 1-40 (or $1.025) favourite to win the Rawson Stakes at Rosehill. He faced just two rivals – Spear Chief and Allunga. The former duly ended Ajax’s hopes of a 19th successive win in what is widely recognised as the greatest upset in Australian turf history.

Does Winx face a similar fate in the G1 $600,000 Caulfield Stakes? Almost certainly not. One of the mare’s rivals, Black Heart Bart, has already captured a pair of G1s this spring (and both at Caulfield) but is untried over 2000m, while He Or She’s connections are assured $54,000 for third. From a betting perspective, best to watch this one.

Strike on the counter

In contrast to the Caulfield Stakes, the field for the G1 $500,000 Toorak Handicap is stacked with value. Four of the past five winners have come through the Sir Rupert Clarke Stakes and have been third-up. Counterattack was the beaten favourite in that race but stuck on nicely and can easily bounce back here.

He’s Our Rokkii is a deserved favourite, but the inside draw this late in the day isn’t the best spot to be. In contrast, Counterattack will jump from gate 8 with the country’s best jockey James McDonald aboard for Chris Waller.

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