Race that stops the nation: Wagin to host 2022 Melbourne Cup in regional tour and be in running for $50,000

The Melbourne Cup will visit Wagin in August as part of a national tour, with the town also a chance of hosting some “Cup heroes”.

The Cup will travel to various communities facilities in the Shire of Wagin on August 17, with the finer details of where the public can catch a glimpse of the trophy yet to be announced.

There is a chance Wagin racing fans will be able to meet some big names during the visit, with the Victoria Racing Club confirming that “Cup heroes” will follow the trophy on its journey.

Shire president Phil Blight said he was excited the town had been chosen for the tour.

“We look forward to welcoming the iconic trophy to Wagin and sharing the magic of the People’s Cup and its stories with the community,” he said.

The town will also take part in this year’s Melbourne Cup Tour National Sweep, with 24 rural and regional tour locations allocated a barrier for the big race.

The town which draws the barrier of this year’s winning horse will receive $50,000 to put towards a nominated charity for a local initiative.

Wagin is one of only two locations in regional WA which will play host to the Cup, with the Pilbara town of Newman also chosen for this year’s tour.

In total, the Cup will travel to 33 destinations in Australia, New Zealand and Singapore before it is awarded at Flemington Racecourse on November 1.

VRC chairman Neil Wilson said the organisation was looking forward to showcasing the Cup.

“The tour has only continued to grow in popularity, with a record-breaking number of applications from towns and communities for its milestone 20th edition,” he said.

“We are humbled by the excitement and joy the Cup brings to people of all ages and backgrounds, and are pleased to be taking the iconic trophy back on the road and sharing it with the nation again after restricted travel over the past two years.”

Visit melbournecuptour.com.au.