Racing: Disgusting start to Melbourne Cup week – don't be this guy

Channel 7's Jason Richardson (left) has exposed the ugly underbelly of Melbourne Cup week. Photo / Getty Images

Channel 7 horse racing host Jason Richardson has exposed the ugly underbelly of Melbourne Cup week in a gross moment.

Millions of Aussies will get caught up in the excitement of the Melbourne Cup this Tuesday – and many will try their luck at picking a winner.

It makes the lead-up to the 3200m race at Flemington a high-pressure week for horse racing tipsters, who never have more exposure – and accountability – when giving their picks for the big race.

And as Richardson highlighted on Saturday night, it can get ugly.

Richardson revealed what to him is a "standard" response from someone who was unhappy with the advice he gave ahead of Derby Day.

"Richo, mate just want to let you know that you are the most pathetic horse tipster there is," an Instagram user wrote in a direct message.

Jason Richardson (right) is part of Channel 7's racing team. Photo / Instagram

"(You) pick the favourite every race and when it loses to a $16 roughie – (post race chat) "ohhhh geez that rough **** of a horse was good! It would've never lost that" WELL YOU NEVER TIPPED IT DID YOU RICHO. GO AND **** YOURSELF"

Richardson called out the abusive troll, continuing a recent trend by sports leagues and high-profile commentators.

"Now seriously, Erin Molan says it best – this is not okay," Richardson wrote. "I laugh at it, but others don't."

Australian TV presenter Molan recently revealed the terrifying moment she believed an online troll was breaking into her home at 2am to attack her unborn daughter — after days of savage abuse on social media.

She also opened up on the sickening message that hit close to home after a family tragedy that is still raw.