The race is the richest handicap in the world run over a distance of 3200m (two miles) at Royal Flemington where it has been run continuously since its inception when Johnny Cutts guided Archer to win not only the first Melbourne Cup but also the second running. Etienne de Mestre owned and trained Archer in 1861 and collected 710 gold sovereigns. In 2021 when Verry Elleegant crossed the line total prizemoney had reached a staggering $7.75 million.
Everything You Need To Know About The Melbourne Cup
