Of all the nations in the world, few are as passionate about athletic endeavors as the land of Oz. After hosting the 2000 Olympics in Sydney, the rest of the globe learned about this nation’s love for sport, making it a great place for tourists seeking out these sorts of events on their vacation.
If you count yourself among them, here are three sporting events in Australia that you should make an effort to see on your trip there…
The Australian Open
Occupying a prime position in the calendar as the first major of the tennis season, the Australian Open is well attended by some of the best racket swingers in the world.
Held in late January, which is the peak of the Austral summer, this event trails only the US Open in attendance.
Due to Melbourne’s propensity for heat waves and sudden downpours, the main courts are all equipped with retractable roofs, assuring spectators of a comfortable environment in which they can watch the likes of Serena Williams, Genie Bouchard, or Roger Federer.
The Melbourne Cup
Known as the race that stops a nation for the heart stopping action that results from attracting the best riders and horses in the world, the Melbourne Cup has long been an eagerly anticipated date on the calenders of equestrian fans. With a purse totaling 6.2 million Australian dollars, its not hard to see why this is the case.
Taking place on the first Tuesday of November each year, this well-followed race has proven to be so compelling to Melbourne locals that race day has been a civil and bank holiday in the state of Victoria since 1873.
Want to get in on the excitement before heading down to Flemington Racecourse? Pick the horses that seems the best to you, and let fate take care of the rest!
Superbike World Championship Circuit Event (Phillip Island)
Are you more of a gear head? If so, then the adrenaline that comes from attending the Superbike World Championship circuit event at Phillip Island will appeal greatly to you.
Held in October on this picturesque isle near Melbourne that is also known for its seasonal population of penguins, a 12 turn road course tests the reflexes and wits of pro bikers that aim to to coax the most speed possible out of their crotch rockets without crashing spectacularly in the process.
The turns, passes and dizzying speeds achieved on straight stretches make this event in Australia well worth seeing if you haven’t gone to a bike race before.
