light up rain-hit Melbourne Cup and its strict 'no thongs' rule

It was cold and raining at Flemington racecourse in Melbourne, Australia. The winner Gold Trip bagged a £2.5m windfall for jockey Mark Zahra and trainers Ciaron Maher and English-born David Eustace. Sir Alex Ferguson, 80, was one of the lucky few to escape the rain. There is a strict dress code for the exclusive enclosure, including a rule that no thongs are allowed. The Melbourne Cup is famed for boozy antics. Last week a six-woman brawl broke out at the race in Brisbane. It is hoped that after years of limited attendances due to Covid, punters are back in full force.

Remember to gamble responsibly. Establishes time and monetary limits before playing. Gambling is not a good idea if you're upset, angry or depressed.

Establishes time and monetary limits before playing. Gambling only with money they can afford to lose.