Michael Felgate is one of Australia’s leading racing experts and one of our stellar hosts leading our coverage.
As a journalist with more than 22 years’ experience in print, radio and television, Michael has covered the biggest sporting events in the world… and happens to have a cracking horse joke.
What do you love most about Melbourne Cup Carnival?
It’s the best week of racing in Australia and arguably the world. Nowhere else does racing take centre stage like it does during Cup week.
The best horses, the best jockeys and trainers and the best atmosphere – how good will it be to have crowds back this year!
You’ve worked within racing media for over 20 years, what’s been the most memorable moment for you? (We’ll allow top 3 if that’s too hard to answer!)
Wow, that is a tough one to answer. As far as the Melbourne Cup is concerned, three stand out.
- Makybe Diva’s third Melbourne Cup is something we will never witness again. It’s astonishing she was able to come back three years in a row and beat the best from around the world carrying more weight each time. As Greg Miles said: “A champion became a legend.”
- Media Puzzle’s win in 2002 was the most emotional Melbourne Cup. Damien Oliver’s mental strength to produce a ride like that after losing his brother in a race fall just days before is something only true champion sports people are able to do.
- Michelle Payne’s win on Prince Of Penzance in 2015 was a fairytale story, just like a movie! If you haven’t seen Ride Like A Girl make sure you do! The first female to win Australia’s greatest race was a moment that transcended racing and sport and she did it on a 100/1 shot! I can’t wait to work with Michelle on this year’s Cup coverage.
What sets the Melbourne Cup Carnival apart from other racing events around the globe?
The public interest.
No other race in the world stops a nation.
It’s the most sought after race that everyone who has a passing interest in racing dreams of winning.
We love horsing around here at 10 ViacomCBS. What’s the best horse joke you’ve heard over the years?
What is a horse’s favourite TV show? Neigh-bours, of course. Sorry!!
