The Darwin Cup, always held on the first Monday in August, will be run today. It holds a unique place among all the city Cup races held in Australia, perhaps having even more of a hold on Darwin than the Melbourne Cup does on its city.

The Darwin Cup holds a special place in the hearts of both Northern Territory locals and racing enthusiasts that have made the journey north to Australian city racing’s most remote outpost. The annual spectacle takes place at the picturesque Fannie Bay Racecourse in Darwin, Northern Territory.

A celebration that takes over the entire city, the Darwin Cup has a rich history of almost 70 years, captivating generations with its excitement and showcasing the country’s deep-rooted horse racing culture.

The origins of the Darwin Cup can be traced back to the late 19th century when the Northern Territory, a vast region with a rich pastoral history, became home to settlers seeking to establish a prosperous society. Horse racing emerged as a popular pastime among these early pioneers, with impromptu races taking place in the region. As the sport gained traction, and with every other city hosting a famous Cup, the need for a formalized event became evident.

In 1956, the first official Darwin Cup was held at Fannie Bay. The race quickly grew in popularity, drawing spectators from far and wide to witness the thrilling competition. Horses, riders, and enthusiasts flocked to the event, and it soon became a beloved tradition within the local community.

Throughout the years, Fannie Bay has undergone several changes, including alterations to the track layout and improvements to the facilities. These enhancements aimed to accommodate the growing number of attendees and offer an unforgettable experience for both spectators and participants.

The Darwin Cup became more than just a horse racing event as time went by – it became a part of the region’s cultural fabric. With each passing year, the race continued to attract visitors from all corners of Australia, who had no doubt heard of the party atmosphere unrivalled among any Cup race in the country. International tourists who want to witness the unique blend of racing, carnival and Northern Territory’s laid-back atmosphere, have also been left agog.

The Cup is more than a single race; it has become a week-long celebration of racing, featuring a variety of supporting races and social events. The Darwin Cup Carnival became an annual highlight as its stature grew, not only for racing enthusiasts but also for those looking to indulge in the festivities and unique charm of Darwin.

The 1980’s saw the introduction of the Triple Crown bonus, awarded to any horse that can win the Darwin Guineas, NT Derby and Darwin Cup.

Throughout its history, the Darwin Cup faced its fair share of challenges, with some years affected by economic downturns, unfavourable weather conditions, or logistical obstacles. However, the resilience of the event organizers, the unwavering support of the local community, and the enduring passion of horse racing enthusiasts allowed the Darwin Cup to weather these storms and emerge stronger than ever.

In recent years, the race attracted even more attention as a symbol of resilience and unity, especially after the devastation caused by Cyclone Tracy in 1974. The Cup became a beacon of hope, signalling the region’s ability to recover and rebuild, despite the immense hardships faced.

Over the years, the Darwin Cup has witnessed some extraordinary moments – from close finishes that left spectators on the edge of their seats to stunning upsets that defied all expectations, the race has produced thrilling and unforgettable memories.

Several horses have become legendary champions of the Darwin Cup, leaving an indelible mark on the event’s legacy. The most famous is Wood, who won the Darwin Cup four times in a row from 1959-1962. Since then, there has been four back-to-back winners of the race – Lord Tiny in 1975-76, Kerr Street in 1983-84, Hawks Bay in 2011-12, and Itsahymn in 2019-20.

Tragedy struck the Darwin Cup in 2013, when popular local jockey Simone Montgomerie suffered a fatal fall in the sixth race of the program. These horrific accidents are always a sober reminder that jockeys put their lives on the line every single day, and the grief is always raw and keenly felt throughout Australian racing.

The Darwin Cup stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of Australian horse racing and the unwavering support of the Northern Territory’s local community. From its humble beginnings to its current status as a highly anticipated annual event that attracts 20,000 annually, the Cup has grown to become an integral part of Australia’s sporting culture. Its legacy of resilience, excitement, and celebration ensures that the Darwin Cup will continue to captivate horse racing enthusiasts for generations to come.

As for a tip for today’s race, Wolfburn looks a play to turn the tables on the top-weight Noir De Rue from two starts back.