The magic of the Melbourne Cup

Three people with a special connection to the Melbourne Cup were among the first to greet the most sought-after prize in Australasian racing when it arrived at Wingatui last night.

Former  Victoria chief steward Des Gleeson is pictured with (from left) Lorraine Anderton and Karen and Paul McGrath at the Otago Racing Awards. 

Anderton is the co-founder and proprietor, with husband Brian, of White Robe Lodge, where 1989 winner Tawrrific was born and bred. 

Karen and Paul McGrath are the daughter and grandson of former Wingatui trainer Bob Heasley, who produced Baghdad Note to win the great race in 1970.

Otago racing fans will get a chance to get a close look at the 18-carat gold cup, which is valued at $A200,000 ($NZ213,000) at an open day at Wingatui racecourse this morning.