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How to prepare for the 2021 Melbourne Cup day

How to prepare for the 2021 Melbourne Cup day
How to prepare for the 2021 Melbourne Cup day

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As one of Australia's signature sporting events, Melbourne Cup day always comes highly anticipated by sports fans from across the country, with 2021's Cup day being no exception to this rule.

In fact, after 2020's Melbourne Cup saw punters enjoy all the excitement of the races from the comfort of their own homes, there's no doubt that in a few short months on November 2, Flemington Racecourse will be coming alive with colour once more.

There is, however, more involved in preparing for Cup Day than putting together your Cup Day look and getting ready to smell the roses that line the walkways at Flemington. Here's all you'll need to do to make the absolute most of the 2021 Melbourne Cup.

Keep an eye on your betting odds

It's common for first-time punters to have a glance at odds a month or so in advance out of sheer anticipation, only to revive their interests on Derby Day or following the barrier draw.

Experienced punters know all too well, however, that when it comes to racing, things can change in a matter of seconds, including the odds on any of the thoroughbreds you may be looking to punt on.

Betting odds can even be influenced by changes to weather conditions, as well as the performance of horses and jockeys over the course of many prep races.

Bookies set betting odds through conducting extensive research in the lead-up to Cup Day, so naturally any punter who's looking to win big better start their own independent research early, to ensure that your tips are up-to-date and backed by weeks of intel.

Source reliable tips

Speaking of Cup Day tips, it can be all too easy to lose yourself in the wealth of tips that circulate online both in the lead-up to the races, as well as on race day itself.

As one of the most quintessential international sporting events of the year, you better believe that a global assemblage of tippers are likely to put in their two cents, with tippers coming from a range of backgrounds.

It pays to do your research on tips as well as those giving tips to ensure that any information you're using when placing your bets has been retrieved from reliable sources.

You should always ensure that your Melbourne Cup tips are coming from established form analysts themselves wherever possible.

Whilst free tips are available, it's wise to take this information with a grain of salt, as these tips may be less likely to be backed by diligent research and the funds that may go into conducting said research.

Set up your own sweepstakes

Betting aside, the sheer fun of Cup Day can be found in simply just enjoying the races with your friends and loved ones, and of course, riling up some competitive cheer amongst all the mates you'll be spending race day with.

If you're not planning on getting dressed up to head down to Flemington this year, then take the opportunity to put together your own local or even workplace sweepstakes.

With a local pot, everyone can enjoy a little flutter and participate in the excitement of the races without even having to dress up or shell out big cash.

If you're looking to enjoy the public holiday from your local pub, chances are they may have their own sweepstakes going which can see you win cash prizes, or even other fun prizes like free pots or pints!

Getting you and your friends a table at your local to watch the races can also be a great way of getting back out with your community following the COVID-19 lockdowns of 2021.

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As experts assert that numbers for this year's Cup Day are likely to be larger than the capacity at Flemington, it's well worth getting a head start on your Cup Day plans nice and early this year.

Book your tickets, finetune your betting strategy, and be sure to secure yourself a comfy place to watch the races from this year. It's looking to be a big one!

  • Gamble responsibly. Contact the Gambling Helpline for free and confidential support, information and counselling on 1800 858 858 or visit www.gamblinghelponline.org.au.