ERROL PARKER | Editor-at-large | Contact
For those who think the Melbourne Cup might be a bit too mainstream, or maybe you’re just tired of all the hoopla, there’s a whole world of alternative races happening across Australia to scratch your annual betting itch.
Some of us are jsut over the Melbourne Cup and that’s OK. Who needs “the race that stops the nation” when there are plenty of under-the-radar trots, sprints, and greyhound scurries where you can cheer, bet, and raise a glass without a single mention of Flemington?
From quiet harness tracks to dog races in every corner of the country, here’s where you can spend the day dodging Melbourne Cup fever and supporting the other equestrian (and non-equestrian) events that really deserve a spotlight.
Gamble responsibly. Do not chase your losses, do not gamble tomorrow because you won’t win anything.
Alternative Races
Burgess Queen Stakes (R8 Ascot)
If you find yourself down on your luck after the Melbourne Cup, the Burgess Queen Stakes at Ascot Racecourse in Perth offers the perfect chance to further ruin your day. Plus, Ascot’s turf has a reputation for favoring front-runners, so keep an eye on fillies who like to set the pace early.
Errols’s tip: Earthstorm
Big Dance (R5 Randwick)
The Big Dance at Randwick is a key event that promises excitement for punters looking to recover from earlier losses. With a competitive field and a 1600m distance, it’s a chance to back a potential winner in a thrilling showdown that showcases some of the best talent on the turf.
Errol’s tip: Tavi Time
Carpet One Handicap (R6 Canberra)
Off to our nation’s capital now, where they race on astroturf, which is disgraceful. The Carpet One handicap is a famous race in Canberra. Very hotly contested, however, there is one horse that’s clearly above the rest when it comes to crossing the line first, which is the point.
Errol’s tip: Encompass
Canadian Club Bm65 Handicap (R8 Eagle Farm)
The Canadian Club Handicap (no, not the one you get after having 15 CC’n’Dry stubbies in general admission) is just a few moments after the big races elsewhere in the country so it offers a great opportunity to triple, or quadrouple down.
Errol’s tip: Sunlord
A1 Tyrepower Wangaratta Maiden Plate (R1 Wangaratta)
The Wang Maiden is the most important race in the state of Victoria tomorrow so pay attention. Look for early speed, don’t back horses from NSW because they run the other way up there.
Errol’s tip: Hillside
Chris Williams Handicap (R6 Darwin)
The Darwin races is arguably the best chance you have to get punched in the head by an Irishman, outside of the Emerald Isle. But from the safety of distance and through the power of airconditioning, you don’t have to be there to take part.
Errol’s tip: A Big Chance (EW bet)
Peter Elberg Funerals Handicap (R7 Morphettville)
Fitting that this is the last alternative race I’ll write about. While there’s places far, far grimmer than this in Adelaide, this place is up there. Going there is truly a Shelbyville experience. Nice place for a Coopers though.
Errol’s tip: Shikanic
Gamble responsibly. All sports betting companies are evil. All of them. Do not use them. Please only bet cash amongst your mates, similar to two-up.
More to come.
