The Melbourne Cup was in town!
Champions, Cups, and Community: The Lexus Melbourne Cup Tour Arrives at Holy Cross
The iconic 18-karat gold Lexus Melbourne Cup arrived at Holy Cross, turning an ordinary school day into an unforgettable celebration of Australian sporting history, community pride, and equine majesty.
The air was electric as students, staff, and families gathered to welcome the prestigious trophy, alongside legendary racing figures and beloved four-legged guests who brought the spirit of the turf straight to the school oval.
Racing History Comes Alive with Sheila Laxon
A key highlight of the visit was an inspiring address by trailblazing horse trainer Sheila Laxon, the first woman to officially train a Melbourne Cup winner. Captivating the crowd with tales from the track, Sheila spoke about the rich heritage, romance, and nation-stopping excitement surrounding "the race that stops a nation."
She shared stories of dedication, hard work, and the bond required between horse and trainer to reach the pinnacle of thoroughbred racing. Her words resonated deeply with students, offering them a firsthand look into the discipline and passion behind world-class sport.
"The Melbourne Cup isn't just a trophy; it's a tapestry of stories, resilience, and the extraordinary partnership between human and horse." — Sheila Laxon
Local Pride: Liam Howley, Country Cups, and Gentle Giants
Adding a warm, personal touch to the day was Holy Cross parent and accomplished racehorse trainer, Liam Howley and some of his crew. Liam brought an array of silverware from his stable’s impressive victories across the country cups circuit, giving students a close-up view of the shining rewards earned through early mornings and untiring care.
The real stars of Howley showcase, however, were his three horse companions:
- Station One: Liam's gentle giant but tough-as-nails, multiple Country Cup-winning gelding, who stood tall as a living example of athletic power and grace.
- Frank & Stein: The dynamic pony duo who stole the hearts of every student present with their gentle demeanors, playful charm, and eager acceptance of pat after pat.
It was such a fun day for all- with some dress up awards certainly to be given for Fashions on the field. Thanks to all who came along to support the day, who dressed up and joined in on the fun! A huge thank you to Liam Howley and crew for supporting us on the day!
