Here are some of the most magical moments.
Kiwi (1983)
Jim Cassidy, a relatively unknown jockey, received instructions to keep the horse at the back of the field until they reached the clocktower. He executed these tactics, and the horse rewarded their patience with an astonishing finish. Weaving through the field, Kiwi surged forward in the final stretch, securing a remarkable come-from-behind victory.
Might And Power (1997)
Might And Power took home the 1997 Caulfield Cup and continued his dominance on Melbourne Cup Day, narrowly edging out the 1995 winner, Doriemus, in a closely contested photo finish. The following year, Might And Power added to his legacy by clinching the Cox Plate, solidifying his status as one of the turf's all-time greats.
Media Puzzle (2002)
Damien Oliver and Media Puzzle took home the Cup in what would become one of the most emotionally charged chapters in Australian history. Despite the tragedy of losing his brother Jason in a fatal riding accident just days before the race, Oliver delivered a remarkable performance, guiding the Irish galloper to a stunning Melbourne Cup victory. This unforgettable achievement became a permanent part of the Australian collective memory.
Makybe Diva (2005)
The Melbourne Cup is renowned for bringing a nation to a standstill, but the 2005 edition elevated this, and the anticipation leading up to the race was unlike anything we had witnessed before. Makybe Diva’s third consecutive win in the Cup, carrying a record weight, etched her name into the history books of all-time great Australian sporting achievements.
Delta Blues (2006)
The Melbourne Cup had its first introduction to Japanese talent in 2005 with Eye Popper, but in 2006, Delta Blues and Pop Rock secured a clear 1-2 finish. This was the first time a Japanese horse had won the Melbourne Cup, let alone come first and second. It also marked only the third time it had been won by an international horse. In a touching gesture, Damien Oliver on Pop Rock held up the hand of Delta Blues’ jockey, Yasunari Iwata, in triumph. The race established the Melbourne Cup as a truly international competition.
Efficient (2007)
Efficient became the first to win the Victoria Derby (2006) and Melbourne Cup (2007) in successive years, and was the first horse since Phar Lap to do so. In another first, he was also the first grey to win the Cup since Subzero in 1992, which he did with a burst, reeling in international runner Purple Moon to win by a half-length. Fan favourite ‘Fish’ now resides at Living Legends, giving all who meet him a thrill.
Viewed (2008)
Viewed’s unexpected triumph in 2008 marked Bart Cummings’ 12th and final Melbourne Cup win, with an unforgettable finish against Bauer. Although the horse wasn’t in top form leading up to the Cup, Bart Cummings worked his magic once again, and combined with a masterful ride by Blake Shinn, Viewed made a dash to the front. Victory seemed assured until Bauer charged from the outside. Viewed managed to hang on for a photo finish and the win became one of the most thrilling of recent times.
Fiorente (2013)
Gai Waterhouse’s first – and long-awaited – Melbourne Cup win came in 2013 with Fiorente, who had a strong lead-up and Cox Plate performance. Ridden by Damien Oliver, the five-year-old stormed down the straight to beat Red Cadeaux by three-quarters of a length in front of more than 100,000 racegoers. He became the first favourite, at 6-1, to win since Makybe Diva in 2005. In May this year, the 15-year-old stallion passed away after a battle with illness.
Prince Of Penzance (2015)
Michelle Payne's groundbreaking victory aboard Prince Of Penzance in 2015 shattered gender barriers in the sport, making it a historic moment. With odds of 100-1, it was one of the longest-priced wins in the history of the Melbourne Cup. This surprising result captivated the nation and inspired many.
Verry Elleegant (2021)
Under the guidance of leading jockey, James McDonald, Verry Elleegant shouldered the burden of 57 kilograms, the highest weight since Protectionist in 2014. She also became the first mare to win the Cup since Makybe Diva in 2005. Top-class competitors, Incentivise and Spanish Mission, had to settle for second and third place, as Verry Elleegant showcased her exceptional prowess.
Experience the Magic of the 2023 Melbourne Cup Carnival
Prepare for a truly unforgettable Cup Week, where equine athleticism meets Melbourne style in a spectacular showcase of thoroughbred excellence. Be there to experience the magic trackside as new champions etch their names into racing folklore. Tickets still available, don't miss out!.
