The Mares of the Melbourne Cup: A Tale of Thirteen Triumphant Trotters (and a Couple of Confused Geldings)
The Melbourne Cup – Australia's "race that stops a nation" – is a grueling test of equine speed and stamina. But let's face it, the real stars of the show often have long eyelashes and flowing manes. That's right, we're talking about the magnificent mares who've left their hoofprints in racing history.
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| How Many Mares Have Won The Melbourne Cup |
So, How Many Mares Have Conquered the Cup?
Hold your horses (pun intended!), the answer isn't quite as straightforward as you might think. Here's the mane attraction:
- Thirteen glorious mares have claimed Melbourne Cup victory.
- That's out of a total of 16 female winners, but there's a twist...
- Three of those wins belong to the legendary Makybe Diva, a true champion who dominated the race for three years straight (2003, 2004, 2005).
So, while some sources might say 13, others might say 16 depending on how you slice the carrot (or should that be hay?).
The Most Recent Victory: Verry Elleegant and the Girl Power Posse
Let's not forget Verry Elleegant, the champion mare who stomped into first place in 2021. Her win was a shining example of girl power on the racetrack, proving that mares are a force to be reckoned with.
But wait, there's more! Mares have consistently challenged the stallions for dominance. They might be outnumbered, but their victories are hard-earned and celebrated with gusto.
Fun Fact: Did you know some geldings (neutered males) have even snuck into the winner's circle disguised as mares? Just kidding (sort of). Geldings have never won the Cup... yet.
Tip: Focus more on ideas, less on words.
Still Thirsty for Knowledge? FAQ for the Fervent Fanatic
Here are some quick answers to quench your Melbourne Cup mare-related thirst:
How to identify a mare? Mares are female horses, typically over four years old. They might not be as muscular as stallions, but their grace and determination are undeniable.
How many times has Makybe Diva won? Three glorious times! A true Melbourne Cup legend.
Are mares good racehorses? Absolutely! Their agility, stamina, and fighting spirit make them formidable competitors.
Can a filly (young female horse) win the Melbourne Cup? Only three fillies have won the Cup in its history, but never say never!
Tip: Slow down at important lists or bullet points.
Will there be more mare Melbourne Cup champions? With their talent and heart, you bet there will be!
Conquering Mount Donna Buang: A Melbournian's Guide to Reaching the Top (Without Getting Lost)
So, you've set your sights on Mount Donna Buang, the majestic mountain that looms over Melbourne like a giant, sleepy koala (but hopefully less grumpy). You're ready to breathe in the crisp mountain air, marvel at the panoramic views, and maybe even pretend you're Frodo trekking to Mordor (minus the, you know, whole evil army thing). But first things first: how on earth do you actually get there?
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Fear not, intrepid adventurer! This handy guide will be your compass (or at least your poorly drawn map on a napkin).
Choosing Your Chariot: Car, Carriage, or Canine? (Just kidding, please don't bring your dog)
The trusty steed (car): This is a classic choice for the independent explorer. The drive is a scenic one, with winding roads and potential wombat sightings (although maybe don't swerve for them). Just be sure you've got a designated driver who isn't planning on knocking back a flask of courage juice before hitting the mountain.
The public transport posse: For the eco-warriors (or those who are slightly car-challenged), public transport is a viable option. Trains will take you to Lilydale, and from there, you can grab a bus to Warburton, the charming town at the foot of the mountain. Just be prepared for an adventure that involves more planning than a Kardashian birthday party.
QuickTip: Skim for bold or italicized words.
The extravagant entourage (taxi): Feeling fancy? Hire a taxi and arrive at the top in style (or at least, mild confusion over why you didn't just drive yourself). This option is best reserved for those who a) have more money than sense or b) plan on impressing a date (although, the stunning views might be enough for that).
Important Note: Whichever method you choose, be sure to check road conditions before you set off. Mount Donna Buang can be a bit of a diva and throw a tantrum with snow or icy patches sometimes.
Packing for your Mountain Majesty Quest: Essential Supplies
- Sensible shoes: This ain't a stroll down Bourke Street. Pack shoes with good grip for those potentially treacherous mountain paths.
- H2O (aka water): Dehydration is a party pooper, so bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated. The mountain air can be surprisingly dry, and nobody wants to be a parched explorer.
- Snacks: Because what's an adventure without a cheeky bit of muesli bar to keep your energy levels up?
- Camera (optional, but highly recommended): Capture those epic mountain selfies (just try not to block the view for everyone else).
Bonus points: A raincoat (because mountain weather can be unpredictable), a hat (to shield yourself from the sun or potential bird droppings), and a sense of humor (because sometimes things don't go according to plan, and laughter is the best medicine).
FAQ: Conquering Mount Donna Buang Like a Boss
How to get there by car? There are a few routes, but all involve following the Maroondah Highway for a while before heading up Donna Buang Road. Google Maps will be your best friend here.
How long does it take? By car, it's roughly a 1.5-hour drive from Melbourne. Public transport can take a bit longer, depending on connections.
QuickTip: Re-reading helps retention.
Is it hard to get to the top? The summit is accessible by car, but there are also walking tracks for those who like a bit of a challenge (and amazing views).
What are some things to do up there? Enjoy the views, have a picnic, check out the Rainforest Gallery, or pretend you're a park ranger on patrol (just don't arrest any rogue squirrels).
Is there anything to eat up there? There's a cafe at the summit, but packing your own snacks is always a good idea.
So there you have it! With this guide and a little bit of planning, you'll be scaling Mount Donna Buang like a seasoned pro in no time. Now get out there, breathe in that fresh mountain air, and don't forget to take a selfie with that smug "I climbed a mountain" look.
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