AUSTRALIA BUCKLES DOWN FOR THE MELBOURNE CUP

First Tuesday of November brings up manic mystique of the 'race that stops a nation'

- Brian Miller

I am no more amazed when, suddenly at this time of the year, I start getting calls and messages from long lost friends and relatives now residing overseas.

Most, if not all, are one-time Singaporeans now turned Australian citizens and, down to a man, woman, aunt, uncle, cousin and ex-girlfriend, there is just one thing they want to know.

Without shame, they will ask: "You are a tipster. So, what's good for this year's Cup?"

Of course, they are referring to the Melbourne Cup and my reply has always been the same. "Guys, you are Down Under. I am up here. How would I know?"

But these calls and messages always bring on a smile as it reminds me that we are heading into November and, even, Christmas.

Yes, no need to be blinded by the lights along Orchard Road. My mates from Down Under always make sure I know that it is "that time of the year".

Melbourne Cup time.

A fixture on every first Tuesday of November, it is the year's biggest gala. In Aussie slang, a "rip-snorter" of a party.

This year, it is on Nov 5 and like all footy-loving Aussies, these former Singaporeans have also been caught up in the manic mystique of "The Cup".

I do not blame them. Not one crikey bit! After all, it is an Australian celebration and those blokes have every right to be a part of it.

The Melbourne Cup has always been called "Australia's Greatest Race" or "The race that stops a nation".

I say it has become more than that. Over the years, it has evolved into one of the greatest races in the Southern hemisphere - maybe even, the world.

What still amazes me is that it is just another handicap race.