A woman competes in the “Fashions in the Field” event before the start of the Melbourne Cup horse race at the Flemington Racecourse in Melbourne on November 7, 2023. Held on the first Tuesday of November since 1876, the punishing 3,200 metre (two-mile) handicap at Flemington is regarded as the ultimate test of stamina and staying power. With Aus$8 million (US$6 million) at stake, the winner of the 24-strong field will bank Aus$4.4 million and instantly become a household name in Australia where the race is a cultural institution. (Photo by William West/AFP Photo)
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