The Lexus Melbourne Cup tour included the Lancefield community on its 22nd tour around the world, and students at St Mary’s Primary school had a once in a lifetime opportunity to see the golden cup up close and meet retired champion racehorses.
St Mary’s Primary School Community Liaison Leader Jo Shannon was thrilled when their school was included in the tour, and in anticipation, she led the students in decorating their assembly hall with buntings, trophy silhouettes, and educational material around the Melbourne Cup Carnival.
Rotarian and the Victorian Racing Club Keeper of the Cup Joe McGrath facilitated a Q and A with former Flemington Racecourse Chief Steward Des Gleeson, and three-time Melbourne Cup winner and now retired jockey Damien Oliver.
The students had the on-campus opportunity to meet two champion racehorses.
Living Legends Chief Executive and veterinarian Dr Andrew Clarke floated 2015 and 2020 Melbourne Cup champions Prince of Penzance and Twilight Payment to the school yard from their green pastures at nearby Woodlands Homestead property, along with helper Adele Ioannuo.
Dr Clarke said Living Legends was a not-for-profit organisation that provides a relaxed lifestyle for retired racehorses.
“Living Legends was established to nurture the deep connection between the community and our racehorse champions. I’m having the time of my life,” he said.
“I’m a good old vet, hanging out with veteran horses, and working with good young people.”
Later, the children followed the Cobb and Co horse-drawn carriage as it transported Mr Gleeson, Mr Oliver, and St Mary’s Primary School captains and the 3.85kg cup valued at $750,000 to Main Street parade. The Very Cool Classic Cars club, the Lancefield Fire Brigade, and pony club riders also joined in and the parade finished near the Memorial Hall for a public presentation and a community BBQ.
Lancefield was the 39th and final destination of the tour, and now Victorian Racing Officials are undertaking earnest preparations for the Melbourne Cup at Flemington Racecourse, to be held Tuesday, November 5 at 3pm.
