This would be one of the memorable races for Melbourne Cup, but then who would have thought that rank outsider Knight’s Choice, offered at 90-1 odds, would cross the finish line first in this Flemington Racecourse Melbourne Cup photo finish, not only surprising racing fans, but also etching his name in Australian history.
Robbie Dolan, in his first appearance at this event, edged out some favorites in the final seconds to win the two-mile race from Warp Speed and Okita Soushi. The latter, with Jamie Kah aboard, was a moment in history because she is one of four female jockeys racing this year-a record for the race.
New Zealander Sheila Laxon, trainer of Knight’s Choice, celebrated her second Melbourne Cup win, 23 years after she made history as the first female trainer to win the race with Ethereal. The win was also a family celebration: Dolan’s father, Bobby Dolan, who worked with legendary Irish trainer Dermot Weld, surprised his son by attending his debut.
It will add glory to the Melbourne Cup, which is held with the reputation of being “the race that stops a nation.” With prize money well in excess of A$8 million, it is considered one of the top races in the world, putting attention on its stakes and the zeal of the crowd that comes together to see it.
For the first time this year, like those of the previous years, some voices inside Flemington were heard condemning the sport for its association with gambling and raising questions about the welfare of animals.
While Dolan savored his win being an ex-contestant on The Voice Australia still sounds in disbelief, “Pinch me, I am dreaming. I never think I could do that. I think I’ll sing for the rest of my life after this.
The momentous win etches Dolan’s position in the racing world and adds a new page to the historical past of the Melbourne Cup.
