Knight's Choice - Historic Upset: 100-1 Longshot wins 2024 Melbourne Cup in Dramatic Finish
In a stunning upset that sent shockwaves through the racing world, local outsider Knight’s Choice claimed victory in the 164th Melbourne Cup, defeating a strong field of international favorites in a heart-stopping photo finish at Flemington Racecourse.
The Australian-trained horse, which started at extraordinary odds of 100-1, edged out Japanese contender Warp Speed in one of the closest finishes in the race’s history. Okita Soushi secured third place in what became a frantic dash to the finish line.
”I still can’t believe it,” said winning jockey Robbie Dolan in a post-race interview, capturing the sentiment of racing fans across the nation.
The victory marks one of the biggest upsets in Melbourne Cup history, with Knight’s Choice becoming the longest-priced winner since Prince of Penzance’s triumph in 2015. The horse paid $81 on TAB fixed odds and $63.50 on the SuperTAB tote.
The unexpected result led to massive payouts for lucky punters, with the First Four dividend reaching a staggering $728,015. Other significant dividends included:
- Quinella: $887.80
- Exacta: $1,986.80
- Trifecta: $22,574
The final placings were:
- Knight’s Choice ($17.80 place)
- Warp Speed ($9.30 place)
- Okita Soutshi ($4.80 place) Zardozi
Summary:
The 2024 Melbourne Cup produced one of its most memorable upsets as 100-1 outsider Knight’s Choice secured victory in a dramatic photo finish. The win resulted in some of the biggest dividend payouts in recent race history, with the First Four reaching over $728,000. The victory adds another remarkable chapter to the rich history of Australia’s most prestigious horse race.