LAST-MINUTE MELBOURNE CUP FUN-FACTS

Melbourne Cup 2020 – ‘Expert’ trivia, by ‘Melbourne Cup’ Max Hitchins

Sure to impress customers as we approach Melbourne Cup Day next Tuesday, did you know: 

1. The first 12 horses will win substantial money in the 2020 Melbourne Cup on the 3rd of November. 1^st place wins $4,400,000; 2^nd $1,100,000; 3^rd $550,000; 4^th $350,000; 5^th $230,000; places 6-12 win $160,000 each. 
2. Jockeys are entitled to five per cent of the prize money earned and will usually also receive a small amount for booking the ride. (That’s a minimum of $220,000 for the winner.) 
3. Melbourne Cup trainers are entitled to 10 per cent of the prize money won by the horse. ($440,000)
4. The Melbourne Cup trophy is made from 18-carat gold, and is worth $250,000.
5. The first Melbourne Cup, won by Archer in 1861, was worth £710, which was paid in the form of 710 gold sovereigns. The prize also included a gold watch for the winner.
6. During WWII the prize money was reduced and winning owners reportedly received war bonds valued at 200 pounds.
7. The father of an Australian Prime Minister sold the family home and put it all on a horse in a Melbourne Cup. Further details at Pick the Winner – stats and stories.  

If you’re interested in videos about 2020 Melbourne Cup horses, see my Need To Know page.

The first 24 people that order “How To Pick The Winner Of The 2020 Melbourne Cup” before 6pm Saturday (31 October) automatically goes into our annual Melbourne Cup Sweep, offering $1000, $500, $100 and $50 for first, second, third and last-placed horses.