Once upon a time, the Spring Racing Carnival was *the* social sporting event to attend in Melbourne. But the tide has turned. This is why tennis is the new races.
Once upon a time, the Spring Racing Carnival was *the* social sporting event to attend in Melbourne. But there's a growing sense that the tide has turned.You don't have to spend money on a hat you normally wouldn't be caught dead in
Poke around the wardrobe of many a Melbourne filly and you'll find a selection of fascinators and hats that are collecting dust. Without putting too fine a point on it ... racewear is bullsh*t. Sneakers are frowned on at the races, but at the tennis they are considered chic. Anyone who has spent a day in heels at Flemington will attest that this is a key selling point.
If you want to really treat yourself, Rockpool and Penfolds also have pop-ups at the tennis. It beats $10 for a limp bucket of hot chips at the races.Each day after the Melbourne Cup, images are beamed around the world of Aussies who have really tied one on at the track. Bad life choices are made, and reputations are ruined. And the world turns. Now nobody is saying that you can’t overindulge at the tennis. I’m sure it happens. But as far as I can tell, it just seems to be less … debaucherous.
In recent years, as you enter the gates at the track, you’re often confronted by groups of protestors drawing attention to the darker side of the Melbourne Cup Carnival. There is a sense that the tide is turning and people are increasingly turning their backs on horse racing. Sure, you could argue that watching players slog it out in 43 degree heat at Rod Laver Arena could be considered animal cruelty … but the key thing is: it’s their choice.Ground passes start at $19 for adults, and are $5 every day for kids. This gives you access not only to tennis, but all sorts of live music, roving entertainment, food trucks and kids' activities .So much of a day at the races is tied to having a “flutter”.