A whopping $AUD7.3 million, is what is at stake at this year’s Melbourne Cup up from $AUD6.25 million last year.
The Melbourne Cup is also the richest 3200m race, and handicap, in the world, and in the top 10 worldwide for all races.
Meanwhile, Yucatan will have to defy Melbourne Cup history and overcome a Flemington hoodoo after drawing in barrier 23, triggering an immediate betting drift.
No horse has won from gate 23 since mudlark Van der Hum in 1976, although Heartbreak City came within a whisker of doing so two years ago when denied by Almandin.
Since barriers were introduced to the Cup in 1924, Rimfire in 1941, is the only other winner from gate 23.
Nick Williams, part owner of Yucatan, said the barrier is irrelevant.
The Melbourne Cup will begin at 5pm tomorrow.
[Source:FOXSports]
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