Tuesday, November 06, 2012
The cup!
I am no gambler or follower of the neddies but like most Australians I do watch the Melbourne Cup on TV. It is a great occasion that generates a lot of excitement. The ladies all get into hats and fascinators and glam up generally and the men place their bets.
I didn't do too badly. I know nothing about form so I go into sweeps only. And one of the horses I got in a sweep came third. So I think I am ahead on the day.
Anne was off to a fancy ladies' day at the Sofitel (once known as the Sheraton) so I looked like viewing the race at home on my own. As it happened, however, Jenny had resigned her job a couple of days ago so was free to come over and join me. Most people I know were working or out of town.
Jenny and I had a very restrained cup party -- with watermelon and freshly squeezed orange juice instead of cakes and champagne. I guess we are getting old.
It was a very exciting race with the winner coming from well behind but ending well ahead. The cup is like that, though. I was rather pleased that it was not a photo finish this year. Last year was so close that I would have been inclined to call it a tie.
The Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall were in attendance and the Duchess presented the cup to the owner. Both seemed to be in good form.
I noticed that the jockey made the sign of the cross at the end of the race. I wonder if anyone will criticize that? They would be well advised not to. Any cup winner is close to God in Australia.
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