Thrilling Victory in Melbourne Cup as Without A Fight Triumphs, Paying Out Big to Bettors
Posted on: November 8, 2023, 08:25h.
Last updated on: November 8, 2023, 10:53h.
In a thrilling Melbourne Cup, Without A Fight, led by jockey Mark Zahra, emerged victorious in the annual two-mile race in Australia. Not only did the horse win the AU$8.4-million (US$5.3 million) race, but numerous bettors also scored huge payouts.
Zahra, who secured victory last year with Gold Trip, once again showcased his prowess by expertly navigating the last stretch and surging past competitors. This marked Zahra’s second consecutive Melbourne Cup victory on different horses, earning him AU$4.4 million (US$2.8 million) of the total purse.
Entering the race with favorable odds of +600, Without A Fight was one of the top choices among contenders. Vauban claimed the leading spot with odds of +225, while Soulcombe (+1000) secured second place and Sheraz (+3300) claimed the third spot.
Small bets resulted in significant wins for some bettors. A bet of $10,000 on Without A Fight resulted in a prize of AU$75,000 (US$48,172). Additionally, two other bettors wagered NZ$5,500 and $5,000 (US$3,258 and $2,962) with New Zealand Tab (Tab NZ), walking away with NZ$49,500 and $45,000 (US$29,328 and $26,662), respectively.
Meanwhile, a homeless man in New Zealand invested NZ$5 and predicted the top four finishers, earning a substantial NZ$106,000 (US$62,805). However, not every bettor had such a successful day. A professional bettor in Australia wagered AU$320,000 (US$189,600) on Vauban to win, only to witness the horse finish in 14th place.
The weekend saw one of the biggest turnouts in years, drawing protests from various groups. On Melbourne Cup Day, a group of approximately 100 pro-Palestine activists gathered outside the Flemington racecourse, chanting slogans and blocking a road leading to the event.
Animal rights activists also voiced their dissent, arguing that horse racing, including events like the Melbourne Cup, constitutes animal cruelty. Their concern centered around the treatment of racehorses, emphasizing the physical strain and risks they face during high-stakes competitions. However, race organizers reported no deaths or injuries during this year’s event.
Protests extended to local restaurants that embraced the Melbourne Cup festivities, drawing criticism from various groups, including animal rights advocates.
