HISTORY OF THE RACE

Hawke's Bay Herald-Tribune, Volume 81, Issue 34, 3 November 1937, Page 15

HISTORY OF THE RACE

Established in 1861, the Melbourne Cup has grown from a small affair into the most fascinating race in the Southern Hemisphere, and perhaps the greatest two miles' handicap in the world. In 1861 there was a sweepstake of £20 each, with1 £200 added. Yesterday the total payment to start for the £10,000 race was £53. Carbine's Cup in 1890 was a £13,230 Tafee and £150 trophy, the winner 's share being £10,230 and the trophy. Archer, 1861 and 1862, aud Peter Pan, 1932 and 1934, are the only horses who have won the Cup twice. Wotan had his chance to equal that that feat but after making a forward move at about five furlongs from' home he f ailed to sustain the Tun that landed him a spnsational winner last year. Favourites who have won the race in addition to Archer, include The Barb, Tim Whiffler, Don Juan, MartiniHenry, Carbine, Newhaven, Revenue, Apologue, Prince Foote, Bitalli, Phat Lap, Peter Pan, and Marabou, The- time record, 3.21$, was made last year by Wotan. The lightest weight carried to victory Was by Banker, 5st. 41b. in 1863. Chifney was the horseman. When Zulu won in 1881, Wheateai fell over a dog in the straight, and Suwarrow also came down, Dodd, ridei. of the latter, died from his injujries'. * ' i ^