Flemington Races


Flemington Racecourse

“Flemington Racecourse, home to the world-famous Melbourne Cup, is Australia’s most iconic racing venue, and it’s been the heart of racing since 1840. With a mix of historical legacy and modern flair, the track showcases thoroughbred excellence over distances of 1,000 to 3,200 metres. It’s not just about the horses; events like the Melbourne Cup blend racing with high fashion, making it a must-experience destination. Whether you’re there for the racing or simply soaking up the atmosphere, Flemington is the pulse of Aussie culture.“

Upcoming Flemington Races: What’s On This Weekend?

Now, let’s dive straight into the action. Racing isn’t just about the Melbourne Cup; Flemington hosts a whole season of incredible events with something for every racing fan. Let’s break down the big races coming up:

This coming Tuesday is the one everyone’s been waiting for – the Lexus Melbourne Cup. You’ve probably heard it called “the race that stops a nation,” and with good reason. It’s a 3200m test of stamina, skill, and pure heart. It’s more than just a race; it’s a day where the whole of Australia – no exaggeration – is glued to their screens or gathered around the track.

Melbourne Cup — “The Race That Stops A Nation”

If you’ve ever heard the phrase “the race that stops a nation,” it’s no exaggeration. On the first Tuesday of every November, Australians pause to cheer on the thoroughbreds thundering down Flemington’s 450-metre final stretch in the Melbourne Cup. It’s 3,200 metres of pure anticipation, grit, and glory – a race where legends are born. Imagine standing trackside, with fashion as sharp as the horses’ hooves and the atmosphere charged with excitement. Rain or shine, this event is an unmissable Australian spectacle.

Past Champions: Take a look at recent winners. These names echo through Flemington, leaving a legacy that’s as enduring as the track itself.

  • 2023 – Without A Fight
  • 2022 – Gold Trip
  • 2021 – Verry Elleegant
  • 2020 – Twilight Payment
  • 2019 – Vow and Declare

Each one of them etched their name in the legacy of this track. It’s the kind of race where legends aren’t just made; they’re expected.

Track Conditions and Tips

Weather-wise, we’re looking at a Good 4 for Saturday, which means the track is dry and firm but with a little give – perfect for fast times. Now, here’s something only a few locals know: Flemington’s unique, straight 1200m stretch gives a slight advantage to horses starting from inside barriers for certain races. And don’t let the sunny skies fool you – Melbourne weather can turn on a dime. It’s always worth checking back closer to race day or even bringing a jacket just in case (I learnt that the hard way one year!).

If you’re looking to place a bet, don’t just rely on the odds. I’ve found it’s often the jockeys and trainers who hold the real insight. Jockeys who’ve ridden the track multiple times, or trainers who know how to prep their horses for Flemington’s particular layout, tend to have that extra edge.

Key Events in the Flemington Racing Season

But Flemington isn’t just a one-hit wonder. This track hosts top-tier events year-round, with four distinct days of the Melbourne Cup Carnival that bring together Australia’s love for racing, food, fashion, and flair.

  1. Penfolds Victoria Derby Day: This is the official start to the Carnival. Dress code? Think classic black and white. It’s all about elegance and high fashion, complemented by some of the best Group 1 races in the country.
  2. Lexus Melbourne Cup Day: The pinnacle. When the gates open for the Cup, everyone – from seasoned punters to first-timers – holds their breath for that exhilarating run.
  3. Crown Oaks Day: Known as “Ladies Day,” Oaks Day blends fashion with fierce competition, as Australia’s top fillies tackle a 2,500-metre stretch.
  4. TAB Champions Stakes Day: The Carnival’s closing day is all about family fun and top racing, with a laid-back atmosphere perfect for everyone.

A Legacy That Doesn’t Quit

Let’s step back. March 3, 1840—that’s when it all kicked off with Flemington’s first race meet. And by 1861, they’d launched the Melbourne Cup. Fast forward a few years, and 32 guys with a passion for racing meet in a pub on Collins Street, merging clubs and dreams. The Victoria Racing Club (VRC) was born, and with it, a promise: to make Flemington not just any track, but the track. They had this wild vision, where racing would sit right up there with the world’s finest.

And it’s not just fancy talk, Robert Cooper Bagot, the founding Secretary, set the stage. He got the government involved, even scored a public holiday for Cup Day. This guy built gardens, fixed up the grounds, and gave out free tickets to women. Every single piece of the racecourse we see today has some link back to these original movers and shakers.

The Track and Racing Dynamics

Flemington’s 2,312-metre pear-shaped track is unique. It has a famed 1200-metre “Straight Six” course that makes or breaks champions, especially with the tight turns that add a twist of strategy. Horses race anti-clockwise here, and the spacious layout means that runners have ample room, whether they lead, pace, or storm from behind.

Did You Know? Flemington’s layout gives a slight advantage to horses in inside barriers on longer races. This might just be the edge you need to consider when placing a bet!

Flemington Racecourse-map

Getting To Flemington Racecourse: Directions and Travel Tips

Located just a short distance from Melbourne’s CBD, Flemington is easily accessible. On race days, special trains run directly from Flinders Street Station, and the No. 57 tram conveniently stops nearby on Epsom Road. There’s also ample parking, but if you’re planning to drive, be sure to arrive early, as traffic can be a challenge.

Insider Tip: Melbourne’s weather is famously unpredictable, so pack a jacket, even if the sun’s out!

Victoria Racing Club (VRC): The Driving Force Behind Flemington

The Victoria Racing Club (VRC) has been Flemington’s guiding hand since 1864. The club formed from a merger between the Victoria Turf Club and the Victoria Jockey Club, with a vision to elevate Flemington to international standards. Its founders, including Robert Cooper Bagot, laid the groundwork for what we see today – from track upgrades to granting the Melbourne Cup its public holiday. Thanks to the VRC’s stewardship, Flemington isn’t just a track; it’s a heritage-listed icon of Australian sport.

Directions To The Track

Contact

For more details, or if you’re planning a visit, here’s how you can reach the Victoria Racing Club:

Address: 448 Epsom Road, Flemington VIC 3031

Phone:  1300 727 575

Reception:  (03) 8378 0888

Membership Email – membership@vrc.net.au

General enquiries – generalenquiries@vrc.net.au

International callers:  +61 (3) 8378 0747

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