Racing: Melbourne Cup crushing blow, no crowds

The famous Melbourne Cup carnival will take place without crowds after Victoria Racing Club conceded on Sunday that it “will not be possible to receive spectators” due to Covid-19 restrictions.

VRC President Amanda Elliott said that the VRC had worked closely with authorities over the past months and had submitted a comprehensive presentation to the Victorian government detailing how the VRC could safely house small crowds within the government and public health guidelines.

The club said that “it is now clear that none of this is possible.”

“While we are very disappointed to not be able to welcome our members and race goers to Cup Week, we understand the government’s commitment to keeping our community safe. We also recognize the need for certainty and clarity for our sponsors. , being only six days away from Derby Day, “said Ms. Elliott.

“We are still in discussions about the possible return to the track for a small number of owners, as is currently allowed in the Victoria region.”

Ms. Elliott said that the VRC would innovate to engage with absent audiences.

“What is certain is that the Melbourne Cup carnival will continue with spectators from all over Australia and the world,” he said.

“Millions will enjoy the spirit of Cup Week, high-quality racing and the 160th People’s Cup race.

“This year’s Cup Week experience will be unforgettable. We have worked closely with our broadcast partner Network 10 to make Melbourne Cup Week a must-see event that you will host from home.”

“We’ve introduced a number of off-the-field initiatives including delicious picnic baskets, our Myer fashions at their Front Lawn competition, the Lexus Melbourne Cup the Race of Dreams, the digital race book, tips, giveaway competitions, trivia games and all the backstories of the horses, trainers and jockeys competing on the famous Flemington track.

“All of this is available on our new, state-of-the-art, interactive Cup Week website, accessible no matter where you are.

“We will be involved in supporting Victoria’s exit from this pandemic as Melbourne approaches a normal environment during the summer.”

The carnival starts on Saturday with four group 1s: Victoria Derby, Cantala Stakes, Empire Rose Stakes, and Coolmore Stud Stakes.

Melbourne Racing Club and Moonee Valley Racing Club host their Caulfield Cup and Cox Plate carnivals without crowds due to the pandemic.