Icons, pioneers, skulduggery and tragedy: ten of the best Melbourne Cups

Michelle Payne becomes the first female rider to win the Melbourne Cup, on Prince Of PenzanceCredit: Robert Cianflone

The Lexus Melbourne Cup is the most coveted jewel in Australian sport and is part of the country's DNA, an annual event that brings the nation together.

It has also yielded many amazing races. Here are ten of the best.

1890: Old Jack earns more applause

A record field of 39 lined up for the 1890 Cup, in which the bookmaker's favourite was a public champion.

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Lee MottersheadSenior writer

Published on 2 November 2019inFeatures

Last updated 17:07, 2 November 2019

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