And they're off! Melbourne Cup Carnival comes to Shanghai
The Melbourne Cup horse race is a defining event in Australia, held on the first Tuesday in November ever year. It is the race that stops a nation.
And up there with the ponies is the fashion on the field — thousands of dollars spent by women on just a single outfit for the one day of the year.
This year, Myer Fashions on the Field is welcoming Chinese participants for the first time, online. It will be judged in September ahead of the Cup.
The first stage of the Chinese competition will be run online, with Chinese men and women encouraged to upload a photo of themselves in their finest racewear.
The best entrants will be invited to join a catwalk in Shanghai in September. The winner will travel to Melbourne for the Cup Carnival and the opportunity to compete in the ultimate Fashions on the Field.
Martin Pakula, minister for tourism, sport and major events in the Australian state of Victoria, of which Melbourne is the capital, said the state is thrilled to put the Melbourne Cup Carnival on the global stage in China.
“By connecting local businesses with decision-makers in China, we’re opening up new trade opportunities, helping businesses grow and creating jobs across Victoria,” Pakula said.
The carnival, as an annual celebration is a blend of fashion, sport, food and entertainment.
Royalty, world leaders, authors, supermodels, rock stars and film celebrities flock to the event.