Cup fever grips punters
CASUAL punters and seasoned gamblers alike will bet millions of dollars today as they back their Melbourne Cup favourites in the race that stops a nation.
At 2pm, the frocks will be still and the champagne steady but the screaming will begin as one of the world’s biggest horse races begins.
Whether it be favourites – Septimus, Nom Du Jeu, Mad Rush and Profound Beauty – or outsiders – Guyno, Red Lord, Varevees and Newport – punters are expected to make a dash for their pockets, despite the tough economic times.
In Cairns, people are expected to flock to Cannon Park Racecourse from 10am to get into the spirit. Two bookmakers will be at the course and a fashion parade will raise money for the children’s ward at Cairns Base Hospital.
Cairns Jockey Club manager Michael Stewart has tipped Profound Beauty to win the race and said punters would dig deep.
"It’s the one day of the year that mums and dads put a couple of dollars out there," he said. "Particularly when times are tight, people hope for the best."
Mareeba Turf Club will hold four races today with gates opening at 9am. Club president Julia Parsons said a bus would run from Atherton to Mareeba with the first race at 12.30pm.
Clubs and bars across the Far North are expecting big crowds at Cup Day functions.
Brothers Leagues Club functions manager Debbie Maltby said while the global financial crisis had hit the back pocket, the traditional event could not be missed.
"I think it’s a case of when the going gets tough, we throw a party," Ms Maltby said.
The club will have roving entertainers and cater for 460 people.
"We open super early (8am) for TAB," she said. "We have complimentary champagne on arrival and TAB runners."
The Reef Hotel Casino entertainment and promotions manager Bruce Stewart said staff would be decked out in red and black for the Hot to Trot theme and stilt-walkers would be roving the sports arena.
And racegoers can watch the race on the two big screens.
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