From a sporting perspective, the Melbourne Cup is one of the premier horse races on the international calendar and organizers are not shy to bill it as 'the race that stops a nation'. Australia that is.
Since 1861, thousands of thoroughbreds have galloped down the Flemington Racecourse in Melbourne over a distance of 3,200 meters. The event happens on every first Tuesday of November and earlier this week, outsider Shocking beat the odds to romp home with the S$5.5-million-dollar top prize.
But really, it is not always about the horses, as we will readily testify with these pictures. Oversized hats and fancy dresses are a big part of the race too, as are quirky outfits more suited for Halloween.
So sit back and enjoy the best pictures over the years from this annual horseracing extravaganza.
