In a nail-biting finish, Knight’s Choice emerged as the winner of the 2024 Melbourne Cup, taking home one of Australia’s most prestigious racing trophies. This year’s Melbourne Cup, a pinnacle of Australian racing, kept the audience at the edge of their seats as jockey Robbie Dolan rode to victory, beating a fiercely competitive field.
‘Pinch Me, I’m Dreaming’: Dolan’s Emotional Victory
An emotional Dolan expressed his disbelief over the win, telling Channel Nine’s Billy Slater, “Pinch me, I’m dreaming.” Dolan’s triumph on Knight’s Choice marks a significant moment in his career, etching his name among the Melbourne Cup’s storied victors. The win also highlighted the skill of Knight’s Choice, whose steady and strategic run sealed the Cup in a photo finish.
Knight’s Choice Triumphs in Close Finish
Just moments before the official announcement, anticipation mounted as Knight’s Choice crossed the finish line in a close contest. The crowd waited anxiously for confirmation, as officials reviewed the photo finish that determined Knight’s Choice as the clear winner.
This year’s Melbourne Cup race proved unforgettable, with the victory of Knight’s Choice underscoring both the talent of Dolan and the competitive spirit of the field.
Also Read: ASX Slips as Financial Markets Anticipate RBA Decision
Star Performances Light Up Flemington
Earlier in the day, Irish pop star Ronan Keating performed live, entertaining the crowds with his hits When You Say Nothing at All and Lovin’ Each Day. The audience at Flemington Racecourse enjoyed a high-energy pre-race concert as Keating joined Australian pop star Ricki-Lee Coulter onstage. The musical performances set a lively tone before the big race, with both artists scheduled for further performances post-race on Oaks Day.
Fans enjoyed the festive atmosphere at Flemington, with large screens showing every moment of the event. For viewers at home, the Melbourne Cup was broadcast live on major networks, allowing fans across Australia to join in.
Race Analysis: Tips, Predictions, and Surprises
Sports analysts and racing enthusiasts shared their predictions in the lead-up to the race, with horses like Buckaroo, Vauban, and Okita Soushi named as strong contenders. Andrew Wu, a seasoned racing analyst, offered his insights in a preview video, alongside a celebrity cameo from Keating himself. Many punters had high hopes for Buckaroo, the Caulfield Cup runner-up, while the Irish stayer Vauban was heavily favored to excel.
Before the race, Buckaroo emerged as the top pick among backers. Known for his endurance, the horse seemed primed for a successful run, though his position in the top three remained uncertain. Yet, it was Knight’s Choice that ultimately stole the spotlight, surprising analysts and betting enthusiasts alike.
Betting and Odds: A Melbourne Cup Tradition
The Melbourne Cup remains a landmark event in the Australian betting scene. As racegoers speculated on odds and placed bets, platforms like Ladbrokes, Sportsbet, and TAB saw high traffic from eager punters. This year, the betting frenzy continued up until the final moments, with Knight’s Choice delivering a significant upset for bettors who had favored other contenders. The unpredictable finish demonstrates the thrilling nature of Melbourne Cup betting, as no odds can truly guarantee an outcome in the heat of the race.
Crowd Favourites and Big Moments
Apart from Knight’s Choice, other horses attracted considerable attention. Onesmoothoperator and Sea King were both highly regarded, while The Map emerged as a wild card for seasoned bettors. Racing fans remained divided over their favourites as Melbourne Cup fever took over the nation.
Collingwood’s Mason Cox, another notable attendee, entertained spectators in the mounting yard as he joined the crowd to secure a front-row view of the pre-race parade. Excitement continued to build as the jockeys made final preparations before the race began, and the racecourse buzzed with anticipation.
Where and How to Watch
For those unable to attend the event, multiple viewing options were available, with the Melbourne Cup broadcast live across Australia. Fans across the country could watch the action on free-to-air channels, including Channel Seven, while online platforms offered live streaming options. The Melbourne Cup’s vast viewership shows the national importance of the race, making it a true cultural highlight in Australia’s sporting calendar.
This year’s Melbourne Cup will be remembered for Knight’s Choice’s spectacular finish, Robbie Dolan’s heartfelt win, and the unforgettable celebrations at Flemington.
