In an exclusive revelation that's set to shake up spring racing conversations across Australia, legendary racing journalist Ernie Manning has shared his highly anticipated Melbourne Cup tip after an incredible six decades in the industry.
A Career Spanning Generations of Champions
Manning's remarkable journey in racing journalism began in 1964, when he first put pen to paper covering the sport he loved. Since then, he's witnessed every Melbourne Cup from the press box, chronicling the triumphs of legends from Makybe Diva to Think It Over.
"I've seen champions come and go, but the magic of the Cup never fades," Manning reflects, his voice carrying the weight of 60 Melbourne Cup carnivals.
The Wisdom Behind the Tip
What makes Manning's annual prediction so sought-after isn't just his encyclopedic knowledge of bloodlines and form guides, but his unique perspective having watched racing evolve through multiple eras.
His approach combines:
- Decades of observing international contenders adapt to Australian conditions
- Understanding how track conditions can make or break a champion
- Recognizing the intangible "Cup factor" that separates good horses from legendary ones
More Than Just a Tip - A Legacy
For Manning, the Melbourne Cup represents more than just a horse race. It's a national institution that brings Australians together, and his role in chronicling its history has become his life's work.
"Every Cup tells a story," he says, "and I've been privileged to help write those stories for six decades."
While keeping his specific 2024 tip under wraps for now, Manning hints that this year's contender possesses that rare combination of stamina, heart, and racing intelligence that defines Melbourne Cup winners.
The Changing Face of Australian Racing
From typewriters to digital publishing, Manning has adapted to every technological shift while maintaining the core principles of quality racing journalism. His career has spanned:
- The rise of international competitors in Australian racing
- Evolution in training methods and track surfaces
- The growing importance of breeding science
- Digital transformation of how fans engage with the sport
As another Melbourne Cup approaches, Manning's insight remains as sharp as ever, proving that while horses and jockeys come and go, true expertise only deepens with time.
