Punters plunge gives TAB record result

The New Zealand TAB has reported record turnover on today's Melbourne Cup, won by the French horse Americain.

Total turnover for this year's race was $8.73 million, up 10 per cent on last year's $7.91m. The previous record was $8.13m in 2005 when Makybe Diva won her unprecedented hat-trick of Melbourne Cups.

TAB spokesman Michael Dore said punter turnout this year had been strong.

"It's been quite a remarkable run of betting really. The rise and rise of So You Think really captured the public's imagination - the result being that it started as one of the shortest priced favourites in the history of the Melbourne Cup at $3.20.

"We also had one of the strongest fields in decades with eight internationals, including three kiwis. The fact it was the 150th running probably also helped add to people's excitement for the race."

The winner Americain paid $10.90 for the win, while the trifecta with second-placed Maluckyday and So You Think (third) paid $224, and the first 4 dividend with Zipping fourth was $7451.60.

One of the biggest winners of the day was a punter who placed a $5000 bet on Americain and won $55,000.

"Every year the Melbourne Cup really draws out the best in racing and this is a terrific result for us," said Dore.

- NZPA