2010 is the 150th Melbourne Cup

On Tuesday 2 February 2010 the Victoria Race Club launched its Melbourne Cup 150th celebrations at Flemington with a program of events throughout 2010 leading up to the 150th running of the Cup on Tuesday 2 November 2010. The activities and events will focus on the national heritage of the race and the contribution it has made to the culture and identity of Australians.

Prizemoney Boost for 2010 Melbourne Cup

There has been an increase in prizemoney to $6 million which is a $500,000 increase on 2009. This will ensure the Melbourne Cup retains its position as the richest handicap race in the world, as well as being the worlds most famous 2 mile (3200 metre) race. It is the people’s race and is a part of Australian culture and has been for well over a hundred years.

Melbourne Cup Trophy Returns to 1930 Design

The 2010 Melbourne Cup trophy has been created by Hardy Brothers Jewellers and is valued at $150,000. It has returned to the design of the Cup won by Phar Lap in 1930 of a three handled loving cup first designed by James Steeth in 1919. Made from 18 carat gold it weighs 4 kg and at the 2 February launch it was handed to VRC chairman Rob Fitzroy, by Mark de Mestre who is the grandson of trainer Etienne de Mestre who won the first ever Melbourne Cup, creating a great moment in history.

Special Melbourne Cup Merchandise for 2010

As well as a range of racing, social and fashion events throughout the year there will be a Melbourne Cup stamp, coin, DVD and book released. Australia Post will have a commemorative stamp and the Australian Mint will have a commemorative coin. Slattery Media will publish a book called “The Story of the Melbourne Cup – Australia’s Greatest Race”, and the DVD will have the same title.

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