Race on for Cups glory

THE Spring Racing Carnival is set to inject more than $500 million into Victoria's economy, despite concerns over the global financial crisis.

 With a drop in commercial spending expected at this year's carnival because of tough economic times, Racing Victoria chief Rob Hines remained confident punters would turn out in big numbers.

Last year the carnival generated more than $549 million, with crowds topping 758,000.

"I think it's shaping up to be one of the best spring carnivals for a good number of years," Mr Hines said.

"When people were making their decisions about corporate bookings and the like, they were deep in the middle of the global financial crisis.

"So if we held our own with last year, I'd be absolutely delighted. But I wouldn't be anticipating an increase."

All the stars will again be out for the 50-day carnival, including models Jennifer Hawkins, Miranda Kerr and Megan Gale.For many, the spring spells party time but for others it's all about the racing.

Incorporating 13 metropolitan and 76 country race meetings across Victoria, the carnival, which began on September 30, finishes on Ballarat Cup day, November 18.

This year, $41 million in prize money will be up for grabs.

It includes the Melbourne Cup, which is worth $5.65 million.

The international raiders will be out in force, determined to take the famous Cup from our shores.

Leading the charge will be two-time Melbourne Cup-winning Irish trainer Dermot Weld with his popular mare, Profound Beauty.

English-based Italian trainer Luca Cumani hopes to go one better this year after saddling up the past two second place-getters, Purple Moon in 2007 and Bauer last year in a photo finish.

But the bookies' favourite for both the Caulfield and Melbourne Cups is emerging star Vigor, trained at Flemington by Danny O'Brien.

As the big meetings draw closer, a fashion frenzy will engulf Melbourne.

Trish Oliver, the wife of dual Melbourne Cup winning jockey Damien, said bright colours would be popular again this spring.

"For the races, I love bright colours and patterns because it's usually sunny and everyone's in a great mood," Mrs Oliver said.

"It just enhances the crowd and makes the people look like they're having fun.

"Flemington has made it so that you don't have to be a racing expert to enjoy it. It's more of a party scene these days."

from www.heraldsun.com.au