The 2011 Melbourne Cup Carnival breaks out of the barriers at Flemington today with AAMI Victoria Derby Day. The forecast is for mild weather, with early rain clearing to isolated showers in the morning, and a top of 21 degrees.
Gates open to the public at 8.30am and the first race of the Carnival is scheduled for 11.20am. Racegoers are encouraged to catch public transport to Flemington, with the first train departing Flinders Street Station at 8.15am, then at five minute intervals.
Victoria Racing Club Chief Executive Dale Monteith said the racecourse was in beautiful condition for the Melbourne Cup Carnival and racegoers could expect Flemington to come alive over the next week.
“There is always a sense of anticipation leading into AAMI Victoria Derby Day, from racegoers tothe owners, jockeys and trainers who see the Melbourne Cup Carnival as the pinnacle of the racing year,” Mr Monteith said.
“Considered to be the best single day of thoroughbred racing in Australia, AAMI Victoria Derby Day is an all-Group raceday, with an incredible four Group 1s. There is no better day of racing anywhere.. ”
The main event, the AAMI Victoria Derby for three-year-olds will be run over 2500 metres at 3.00pm.
The fashion stakes are equally high with the commencement of the VRC’s Myer Fashions on the Field for both men and women, with registrations at 10.15am. This is the day for classic elegance, which sets the pace for the entire week. Traditionally, black and white has been the prominent colour scheme for women, while men often chose to wear a grey morning suit, peacock vest and pin-stripe pants.
The official flower for the meeting is the Cornflower.
With rain clearing, the VRC is expecting strong sales this morning. Tickets are still available at www.ticketmaster.com.au
Today’s last race is at 5.10pm and trains will continue to take racegoers back to the city until 9.00pm.
