Melbourne Cup is richest race once again after prize-money boost to A$8 million

The Melbourne Cup is back as being the richest race of the week of spring racing at Flemington with the race worth A$8 million (£4.4m) this November.

In a clear response to Racing NSW’s move on Flemington’s spring territory with the inaugural A$7.5 million Golden Eagle (1,500m) to be run at Rosehill on Victoria Derby day, the increase of just A$700,000 on last year’s purse ensures the world’s richest handicap remains the country’s richest race for the first week of November.

Victoria Racing Club chair Amanda Elliott told the Herald Sun the Melbourne Cup remains the race participants desire most.

"It is the race every Australian owner, trainer and jockey wants to win, and internationally, has become one of the most sought-after prizes in world racing," she said.

Elliott also took aim at Racing NSW’s A$14 million The Everest – which is to be run on Caulfield Cup day.

"Connections cannot buy a place in the Lexus Melbourne Cup, it has to be earned."

Last year's Melbourne Cup was won by Cross Counter for trainer Charlie Appleby, jockey Kerrin McEvoy and Godolphin.

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