Melbourne Cup 2024: Thousands of Perth punters dress to impress at Ascot Racecourse

Bets were placed, drinks were flowing, and colourful frocks were out in force as thousands frolicked at Ascot Racecourse on Melbourne Cup day.

About 15,000 people descended on WA’s iconic course to watch the race that stops the nation on Tuesday.

Ladies were dressed to impress for the day in block colour dresses including pale yellows and pinks, as well as lots of bows and florals.

The men attending were looking just as spiffy with many in unique sunglasses and hats to accentuate their suits.

Two guys were even dressed in puffer jackets for the occasion.

Before the race, James Brearey, Anna Thomson, Rebecca Bogan, and Scott Thomson were enjoying some drinks.

Mr Thomson, who is from Liverpool, said it was his first time at Ascot Racecourse.

“We come from Liverpool, so that is where the Grand National is,” he said.

“We do quite a lot of the races at home and then we heard about this so it was a no brainer to come.

“I’ve put my money on Bookaroo.”

Among the crowd was Perth influencer Rose Oates, who was enjoying the day at Ascot Racecourse with her friends.

She said she was putting her money on Absurde and Sea King for the big race.

“I haven’t been in 16 years so this is amazing,” she said.

“It is such a fun day and gives us a good opportunity to get dressed up.”

There was roving entertainers including mirror kittens and showgirls exciting the crowd ahead of the Melbourne Cup race.

The crowd began to gather at the big screen to watch the livestream from Flemington as the clock ticked towards 12pm.

Cheers began as the horses leapt out of the gates for the 3200m race.

As the horses hit the last 500 metres the crowd roared with many clapping and yelling “c’mon” in the hopes of the horse they put money on coming first.

Many had their dreams dashed but others had their arms waving in celebration as Knight’s Choice, ridden by jockey Robbie Dolan, crossed the finish line first.

Knight’s Choice edged out Warp Speed in a photo finish, followed by Okita Soushi in third.

One lucky WA punter turned $30 into $555,441 after their trifecta came through.

Another punter collected $245,513 after placing a $1 first four bet.

Other significant winners included a $5 and $12 first four bet, which collected $68,198 and $163,675 respectively.

A $3 mystery combo bet also collected $20,275.

The drinks were flowing after the race as punters either celebrated their big win or drowned their sorrows.

But the drinks were too much for some with two rowdy punters being dragged out by police and security within minutes of each other just after 2.30pm.

The high heels also started to come off by the afternoon with women walking and some even dancing around the grounds barefoot.